Human disturbance at water sources of desert bighorn sheep

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

Leslie, David M., Jr.; Douglas, Charles L.

Source:

Wildlife Society Bulletin, The Wildlife Society, Volume 8, Issue 4, p.284-290 (1980)

Call Number:

A80LES01IDUS

URL:

http://www.jstor.org/stable/3781179

Keywords:

desert bighorn sheep, Ovis canadensis californiana, Ovis canadensis nelsoni

Abstract:

Alterations of behavior and movement of desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) in the River Mountains, Nevada, were coincident with construction activities near the population's primary watering site. The juxtaposition of construction efforts and summer water dependence of bighorn sheep caused a significant shift in use of artificial water sources. Nine of 17 marked ewes altered their watering patterns in response to construction activities. Productivity during construction did not depart from the long-term population mean; however, lamb survival may have been affected. Responses of the River Mountain herd to construction activities were dampened by a high degree of habituation to man.

Notes:

ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology: Mammals

Full Citation: Leslie, D. M., Jr., and C. L. Douglas. 1980. Human disturbance at water sources of desert bighorn sheep. Wildlife Society Bulletin 8(4): 284-290.