Issue/Problem Statement
A need was identified for a better understanding of the interactions between coyote predation, forest habitat manipulation (harvest, etc.) and deer populations in Nova Scotia (part of Nova Scotia Deer Wintering Area Study).
Objective
To investigate interaction of deer and coyote populations and effects of forest harvesting activities in different areas of Nova Scotia.
Methods
Collect information on coyote movements, hunting behaviour and success, food habits and habitat use through radiotelemetry and snow tracking of coyotes and deer. Collect information on reproductive rate and age structure of the provincial population through provincial carcass collections so that results of the DWA study can be related to the status and dynamics of the provincial coyote and prey species populations.
Partners
Nova Scotia Department of Lands and Forestry Regional Services, Canadian Parks Service, Acadia University (ACWCB), University of Saskatchewan, and trappers.
Project Dates and Duration
Complete.
Progress to Date
BSc. Honours & Ph.D complete, internal reports completed and several scientific papers have been published.
Reporting
Theses, technical and scientific publications, and various, published in Nature's Resources, Trappers Newsletter and/or other venues, as appropriate.
Management Recommendations
Apply knowledge gained from this work in on-going wildlife management planning in Nova Scotia.