Winter Conditions Weekly Report January 26, 2004

SUMMARY Animal condition. Cold winter temperatures always drain animal energy reserves. Any human disturbance causing unnecessary animal movement speeds this process. Winter conditions. Temperatures have decreased over the week and animals will use more fat reserves. Snow levels increased some, but the new snow is light and winds swept much of it off of areas that have remained open throughout the winter. Depredations: Depredations are steadily increasing as the winter progresses. Sand Creek, Hamer 4 to 6 inches of new snow covered the lightly crusted snow. There has been no more mortality of radio-collared deer. Swan Valley. 4 inches of new snow. Baiting of elk on Rainy Creek continues. Deer are crossing and being struck by vehicles along the road south of Irwin. Use caution in this area. Teton Basin, Victor Area. Emergency deer feeding continues. Feed sites have increased. 3 to 5 inches of new snow fell over the weekend, worsening conditions for deer. Big Desert/INEEL Some light snow accumulated but animal are still moving about freely. Big and Little Lost Rivers. 1 to 2 inches fell over the weekend. High winds kept bare slopes clear and animals are moving about freely. Birch Creek. Some new snow fell, but animals are still moving freely. Tex Creek Strong winds kept new snow from accumulating on slopes and ridges. Elk remain widely distributed in small groups. This report brought to you by Paul Faulkner, Upper Snake Region Landowner/Sportsman Coordinator, Idaho Department of Fish & Game.