In comparing habitat use patterns of elk (Cervus elaphus) and mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), Johnson et al. found that mule deer avoided elk, indicating interference competition. Elk selection of plant resources was independent of mule deer selection, whereas mule deer selection was contrary to that of elk. Mule deer chose steeper slopes, locations closer to roads with moderate traffic, and easterly aspects. Elk chose gentle slopes, locations farther from roads with moderate traffic, and westerly aspects. Overall, the authors concluded that elk and mule deer use resources differently during the spring on shared ranges.
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