Mule Deer & Coyote Experts Coming To Speak

Idaho Falls - When it comes to talking about big game populations no discussion can go on very long before the topic of predators comes up. IDFG is aware of this fact, so meetings have been planned across the region to help present some of the latest scientific information available. Outdoor enthusiasts have an excellent opportunity to hear the latest information and research on mule deer and coyotes August 24, at 7 p.m. in the Wood River Room at Idaho State University in Pocatello or in Idaho Falls on August 25 at 7 p.m. in the Idaho Fish and Game Regional Office at 4279 Commerce Circle. Senior research biologist Mark Hurley of Idaho Fish and Game and wildlife research biologist Dr. Eric Gese of the National Wildlife Center and Utah State University Department of Natural Resources will address the issues and ecology surrounding mule deer and coyotes. Unfortunately, due to scheduling conflicts Dr. Gese will not be at the meeting in Idaho Falls. Hurley's groundbreaking work on the Idaho Fish and Game research study on mule deer in southern Idaho will be featured. He will discuss portions of the study focusing on the effects of different management strategies regarding coyotes, mule deer and predation. Volunteers and conservation organizations were extremely important in the collection of data and the collaring of deer during the long-term study. Funding from several conservation organizations and agencies help purchase equipment and fund personnel. Dr. Gese is well known for his long-term studies of coyotes and their ecology. He has studied coyotes and other carnivores throughout the west. He will review coyote ecology with reference to mule deer predation and coyote dynamics and share information and findings on why some predator control methods work under some conditions and not under others. For more information call the Fish and Game Regional Offices either in Idaho Falls at 525-7290 or Pocatello at 232-4703.