Relationships between Predator Removal and White-Tailed Deer Net Productivity

摘要: This study was conducted to determine the impact of predation on productivity whitetailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in South Texas by removing predators from one area and comparing results a control area. A total 188 coyotes (Canis latrans) 120 bobcats (Lynx rufus) were removed during predator removal efforts approximately 5,400-acre (2,186-ha) experimental 1 February 30 June 1971 1972. Aerial counts 1971, severe drought year, revealed fawn:doe ratio 0.47 compared 0.12 In 1972 more favorable climatic conditions led higher both areas, but relative difference between two areas maintained. The had 0.82 0.32 Counts roads indicated decline with increasing distance These data indicate that populations this locality could be increased very intensive program. To justify such program basis present information, however, hunter harvest would probably required hold herd below density level where starvation, diseases, or other factors begin take their toll. J. WILDL. MANAGE. 38(4):854-859 Regardless underlying circumstances, certain canid have at times developed specialization for preying ungulates point drastically curtailing population (Errington 1946). Selecting against young these conspicuous, relatively slow-breeding forms potentially destructive (Allee et al. 1949:374). That can specialize an ungulate species has been suggested studies involving coyote antelope (Antilocapra americana) (Jones 1949) Arizona (Arrington Edwards 1951), lynx canadensis) caribou (Rangifer tarandus) Newfoundland (Bergerud 1971), black-backed jackal mesomelas) blesbok (Damaliscus dorcas phillipsi) Africa (du Plessis 1972), (White 1966:83, Knowlton 1968). Recent ear-marked (Knowlto 1964) radio-tagged (Cook 1971) white-tailed fawns Welder Wildlife Refuge responsible substantial juvenile mortality, likely major factor stabilizing dense generally healthy refuge. Speculation arisen concerning fate portions Texas. On th Ki g Ranch Kleberg County is maintained around 3-6 per 100 acres (40.5 ha) (Kiel, unpublished data). Rio Grande Pla n average 3.5-5.5 exists (Harwell Kierce whereas pproximately 15-18 are fo nd 1971). much Central Mineral Region also approximates 18 (Teer 1965). Teer (1965) found embryo adult range 0.96 1.29, yearlings averaged 0.75. Average Research supported Caesar Program Ecology through Agricultural Experiment Station. 854 Wildl. Manage. 38 (4):1974 content downloaded 157.55.39.163 Sun, 20 Nov 2016 04:24:27 UTC All use subject http://about.jstor.org/terms PREDATOR REMOVAL AND DEER o Beasom 855 1.24 1.81 doe (Barron Harwell 1973). Illige (1951) production 1.28 embryos (adults yearlings) county adjoining Postpartum (including adults ratios County, Texas, rarely greater than 0.3 Evidence suggests low whitetail net result high fetal early postnatal mortality. originated as part wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo intermedia). It designed investigate effects turkey deer. Gratitude extended W. H. Kiel, Jr., biologist, King Ranch, Inc. who provided advice assistance throughout study. enthusiastic field support D. A. Stiles, C. Hutchinson, Sandifer, Haucke, R. G. Sims, L. Mitchell, F. S. Guthery phases project gratefully appreciated. E. Ables offered many helpful suggestions preparation manuscript.