JCSET | Watershed Studies Institute Research Symposium
Evaluating Anti-Predator Behavior in a Captive Elk (Cervus canadensis) Herd
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Graduate
Major
Biology
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Howard Whiteman
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Predator-prey interactions drive decisions of either counterpart, meaning predators and the presence of perceived dangers, such as scent markings or calls, are capable of altering an organism’s behavior. On a spatial scale, risk and cost-benefit tradeoffs related to predation pressures create a landscape of fear (LOF), where prey avoid areas they associate with risk. Certain periods of time, such as birthing seasons, pose even greater risk to prey species. Research suggests that captive and/or historically captive animals tend to respond less effectively to predation than native populations that regularly experience threats of predation. I have gathered behavioral data on a captive elk herd in Golden Pond, KY by conducting camera trap surveys, spanning from calving season to winter of 2022, to assess the herd’s behavior and space use relative to predator corridors and sightings within the enclosure. I have also camera trapped a historically captive herd in Cherokee, NC as well as a native herd in De Beque, CO to compare behaviors between population histories. These findings may better equip wildlife managers with behavioral information to use as a predictive tool for management and reintroduction plans.
Spring Scholars Week 2023 Event
Watershed Studies Institute Symposium
Evaluating Anti-Predator Behavior in a Captive Elk (Cervus canadensis) Herd
Predator-prey interactions drive decisions of either counterpart, meaning predators and the presence of perceived dangers, such as scent markings or calls, are capable of altering an organism’s behavior. On a spatial scale, risk and cost-benefit tradeoffs related to predation pressures create a landscape of fear (LOF), where prey avoid areas they associate with risk. Certain periods of time, such as birthing seasons, pose even greater risk to prey species. Research suggests that captive and/or historically captive animals tend to respond less effectively to predation than native populations that regularly experience threats of predation. I have gathered behavioral data on a captive elk herd in Golden Pond, KY by conducting camera trap surveys, spanning from calving season to winter of 2022, to assess the herd’s behavior and space use relative to predator corridors and sightings within the enclosure. I have also camera trapped a historically captive herd in Cherokee, NC as well as a native herd in De Beque, CO to compare behaviors between population histories. These findings may better equip wildlife managers with behavioral information to use as a predictive tool for management and reintroduction plans.