Management Implications of Elk and Deer Use of Clear-Cuts in Montana

Abstract

Elk (C. e. nelsoni), mule deer (O. hemionus) and white-tailed deer (O. virginianus) pellet-group densities were counted in and adjacent to 87 clear-cuts of various sizes and ages in eastern and western Montana. Pellet distributions suggest that animals enter clear-cut openings in search of better quality or greater quantities of forage. The willingness of animals to enter an opening is influenced by a requirement for security during the feeding period and is locally modified by the past experiences of animals in the available environment. Elk and deer preferred clear-cuts with cover in the opening except where such cover inhibited forage growth. Both preferred openings in which logging slash was not a barrier to movement. Elk preferred smaller openings than deer, but were more tolerant to large openings, particularly where natural openings were already present in the environment. Elk use of clear-cuts was severely depressed by the presence of open roads and inadequate cover at the edge of the opening.