Effects of selective harvest on antler size in white‐tailed deer: A modeling approach

摘要: Selective harvesting in wild deer (Odocoileus spp.) populations is a common practice that may influence antler size. However, free-ranging populations, response due to selection unknown or difficult quantify because antlers are influenced by nutrition and population demographics. We used quantitative genetic models predict how white-tailed (O. virginianus) would respond what variables (i.e., size, age structure, mating ratio, heritability) most affected validated our genetics program comparing model results with of for controlled breeding experiments; modeled points (AP) score increased (2.2–4.3 AP 48.5–97.7 cm, respectively) after 8 years selection, similar observed increases (3.2) (92.3 cm) from the population. In heritability were more important influencing size than was lower (0.1–0.9 AP) even 20 selection. These show selective be inefficient change population-level characteristics related Response will less possibly simulations, individual reproductive success males lower, done large group males, survival rates lower. factors, others, reduce amount improvement can made Therefore, should justified managing demographics dynamics, but not changing populations. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.