Ask the Conservation Officer (CO)

by Gary Hompland, Regional Conservation Officer Question: "In an earlier column you cautioned antler hunters and other recreationists against disturbing deer and elk on winter ranges because of low energy stores they were vulnerable to spring time mortality. Now that we're well on our way to spring, how have our deer and elk herds survived?" Answer: Southern Idaho received more snow last winter than we have in several years. For newcomers, this winter may have seemed harsh. However; a look at historical records suggests this winter was closer to "normal" than the past several winters have been. A look at the water content in the snow of most of our mountainous drainages indicates they are near the long-term average. Many people relate to wildlife in terms they are most familiar with. When they try to make sense out of winter survival or mortality of big game populations, they often do it from the perspective of domestic animal industry. These ventures are designed to maximize profit for the producer. Animals are often confined, fed, and medicated when necessary. They seldom experience winter losses comparable to wildlife. Wildlife populations lack the immediate, close care of domestic animals. Their survival depends on seasonal migrations to habitats that support their survival. Some of our most effective management practices limit human disturbance and improve shrub communities on occupied winter ranges. Winter is never a "good time" for wildlife. Even under the best wintering conditions some animals will be lost. Biologists often consider winter fawn mortality around 50 percent near normal. Occasional winter mortality of up to 70 percent can be tolerated, without a long-term decrease in population. During winters of low snow accumulation, like we've had the last several winters, survival of fawns exceeded 50 percent. The last winters most of southern Idaho observed fawn survival at near 75 percent. Hunters observed the affects of last year's improved winter survival by seeing higher numbers of deer during fall hunting season. This winter, biologists are seeing a more significant winter loss of fawns. The degree of mortality varies across southern Idaho from around 18 percent to nearly 90 percent. The Magic Valley region is observing better than average fawn mortality at nearly 30 percent. The majority of the fawns that have been lost to the winter were the smaller, lighter fawns at the time of capture. Elk in the Magic Valley region appear to have wintered well. Some winter mortality is being observed in the Big Wood River drainage. Biologists and conservation officers have examined some elk calves lost and noted they were small for their age and had poor nutrition. Conservation officers are also reporting a number of dogs chasing elk and deer. Officers have not destroyed any dogs chasing big game yet, but they have issued some citations to pet owners. Biologists and conservation officers across southern Idaho continue to monitor fawn mortality and caution recreationists again to avoid disturbing deer and elk on winter ranges as they transition to spring green-up areas. If you have any further questions you may call the Magic Valley Regional Office of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at (208)324-4350 or e-mail us at the Fish and Game web site at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.