Evaluating the relationship between mule deer pellet-group data and available winter range, using LANDSAT imagery

Authors

John W. Wyckoff, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota

Abstract

In this study, mule deer population trend data (deer-days-use/hectare) were statistically analyzed with range area data that were extracted from LANDSAT satellite imagery. The remote sensing techniques developed use multidate, winter images of an area in central Utah. Snow-covered areas and vegetational areas mapped from the imagery were composited into 26 maps representing the approximate winter range available to mule deer on 26 dates over a five-year period (1972–1977). Utah State Division of Wildlife Resources pellet-group transect data were statistically analyzed with range data measured from the satellite imagery. Range area accounted for a fairly large proportion of the variation in deer-days-use/hectare (r = −.83). This result seems reasonable since deer population density should increase as available range decreases.

Recommended Citation

Wyckoff, John W. (1981) "Evaluating the relationship between mule deer pellet-group data and available winter range, using LANDSAT imagery," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 41: No. 2, Article 8.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol41/iss2/8