Elk Habitat Use Patterns in the Shrub-Steppe of Washington

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Spatial and temporal habitat use patterns of elk (Cervus elaphus) in the shrub-steppe of Washington were studied from March through October 1983 and 1984. Four male and 4 female radio-collared elk were relocated a total of 782 times. Female elk preferred low elevation sagebrush associations during spring, late summer, and fall and riparian areas during the calving period and late summer months. Sagebrush stands were important bedding areas, particularly during late summer. Male elk selected sagebrush types during spring, summer, and fall. Elk preferred low elevation topographic zones. The distribution of natural springs was an important determinant of habitat use patterns for lactating female elk, but bull elk habitat use was less constrained by free water. Elk were active nocturnally. In the absence of extensive thermal cover, elk decreased thermoregulatory costs by bedding in sagebrush stands and by limiting major diurnal foraging bouts. The behavior of this population suggested that elk can be successful with limited cover under conditions of infrequent disturbance and adequate forage.