In addition to studying the diet compositions of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus couesi) and cattle (Bos taurus), Gallina researched the diet overlap between the two species that could potentially lead to forage competition. Gallina found that white-tailed deer prefer tree and shrub species, while cattle prefer grasses. In the wet season the two species' diets overlapped when they both selected forbs. However, during this season forbs were abundant, reducing potential competition. This study found that white-tailed deer and cattle, in this area, can coexist without hindering the other species' foraging capabilities. Since the two species have different forage patterns, the vegetation is able to remain productive.
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.