Behavioral connectivity among bighorn sheep suggests potential for disease spread

摘要: Connectivity is important for population persistence and can reduce the potential inbreeding depression. between populations also facilitate disease transmission; respiratory diseases are one of most factors affecting bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis). The mechanisms connectivity in likely have implications spread disease, but behaviors leading to groups not well understood. From 2007–2012, we radio-collared monitored 56 Salmon River canyon central Idaho. We used cluster analysis define social then estimated these using a multi-state mark-recapture model. Social were spatially segregated linearly distributed along canyon. Monthly probabilities movement adjacent male female ranged from 0.08 (±0.004 SE) 0.76 (±0.068) males 0.05 (±0.132) 0.24 (±0.034) females. Movements extensive considerably higher during rut. Probabilities females typically smaller than those did change seasonally. Whereas connected, north south was limited. novel application model allowed us estimate probability approximate level across population. Our results suggest high rates rut result transmission pathogens among both groups. Potential non-trivial. Land managers plan grazing domestic spring summer months when relatively inactive. Removal or quarantine may consisting © 2016 Wildlife Society.