Vegetation and Deer Habitat Relations in Southern Ontario: Application of Habitat Classification to White-Tailed Deer

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Abstract
In response to an increasing need for an effective method to evaluate land for its potential to support wildlife populations, a land evaluation methodology in relation to white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus Zimmermann) populations was developed. Deer winter and non-winter habitat requirements were related to environmental factors obtained through the habitat classification. The biological uses of habitat resources by white-tailed deer were identified. Seasonal compatibility matrices between the habitat resources and the biological uses were established. A habitat resource inventory of 256, 1-km$^2$ cells was done using a computer-based analysis; the potential of the cells to support deer populations on a seasonal basis was determined. Five habitat classes were identified and their frequency distribution in the `Golden Valley' study area for each season was: Comparisons between the habitat evaluation maps with other mapping efforts and with deer population indices suggested the study method was an acceptable approach to habitat evaluation of white-tailed deer. It was concluded that the habitat evaluation methodology could serve as a useful tool to the wildlife manager and recreational land use planner.

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