RANGE USE, FOOD HABITS AND AGRICULTURAL RELATIONSHIPS OF THE MULE DEER BRIDGER MOUNTAINS, MONTANA

A pronounced increase in Rocky Mountain mule deer (Odocoileus h. hemionus) numbers has occurred in recent years in the Bridger Mountains, Gallatin County, Montana. Residents report that, as late as 1948, deer were quite scarce and not frequently seen. Today deer are commonly seen, and a large population is evidenced by overused browse plants as well as by damage to agricultural products. Predator control, buckonly seasons (until 1952), and a scarcity of hunters due to the precipitousness of the terrain have undoubtedly been contributing factors to this increase. Except for casual observations, no attempt had been made to secure basic ecological information necessary for proper management of this herd. Specific information on food habits and range use was lacking, not only for this area but for much of the state. To help clarify the intricate problems associated with the management of this game animal, a study was carried out on a full-time basis during the summer and winter months, and periodically in the fall and spring, from June 16, 1955, to May 7, 1956. Food habits, range use, and agricultural relationships were emphasized. Although the study was conducted primarily to aid in the future management of the mule deer in the Bridger Mountains, it was felt that the results would have definite application to the management of this animal in similar situations throughout the state. Appreciation for aid during the study is extended to the following: Don C. Quimby for technical supervision and guidance in writing the manuscript; Joseph Townsend, District Game Biologist, for direction and assistance in the field; J. C. Wright and 'A joint contribution from Montana State College, Agricultural Experiment Station, Project No. MS 844, Paper No. 389, Journal Series, and the Wildlife Restoration Division, Project W-73-R-1, Montana Fish and Game Department.