Wambolt and McNeal looked at the variables involved with feeding site selection of mule deer and elk during the winter, on the Gardiner range in southwestern Montana. The dominant forage used by elk was grass in open topography that lacked sagebrush cover. Mule deer were found in areas of denser shrub cover adjacent to steep topography. Both species avoided higher elevations, due to the snow depth that accumulates; the study site was free of snow. Management in the area should focus on grass production at lower elevations, while also increasing large browse species. The importance of the large browse species not only provides winter nutrition for mule deer, but also aids in the cover habitat required for survival.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.