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