Using spatial methods to analyse anthropogenic predation risk and movement ecology of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)

Hunting has been used as a central tool by wildlife managers to maintain populations of game species, however, we still lack a good understanding of exactly how hunting influences deer biology. Technological advances in GPS data over the last two decades now enable us to perform more detailed analysis on the effects of human hunters on wildlife populations. This research explores the spatial ecology of hunters and White-tailed deer in the Cross Timbers ecoregion of Oklahoma. Using new statistical methodologies to analyse simultaneous GPS tracking data on deer and hunters to study their spatial interactions. The results show how new methods allow us to quantify the spatial ecology and behaviour of White-tailed deer in response to predation pressure from human hunters in combination with the biotic and abiotic drivers of predation risk and flight response. Giving wildlife managers greater understanding to influence deer populations, and landscapes, in the future.

Name thesis:degree_name

M Sc

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Geography

Grantor dc:publisher

The University of Western Ontario

Year dc:date.issued

2021

Author dc:creator

• Kirton, Rhiannon D

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Long, Jed A

• ecology
• cervids
• odocoileus virginianus
• hunting
• GIS
• wildlife management

Language dc:language.iso

en_ca

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14721/31798

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:uwo.scholaris.ca:20.500.14721/31798