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ID: Modeling large-scale winter recreation terrain selection with implications for recreation management and wildlife
Modeling large-scale winter recreation terrain selection with implications for recreation management and wildlife
Type: Article
Subjects: GPS tracking
Habitat models
Interpersonal conflict
Motorized recreation
Non-motorized recreation
Recreation planning
Item
view first image of Modeling large-scale winter recreation terrain selection with implications for recreation management and wildlife
Modeling large-scale winter recreation terrain selection with implications for recreation management and wildlife
Type:Article
Subject:GPS tracking
Habitat models
Interpersonal conflict
Motorized recreation
Non-motorized recreation
Recreation planning
Description:Winter recreation is a rapidly growing activity, and advances in technology make it possible for increasing numbers of people to access remote backcountry terrain. Increased winter recreation may lead to more frequent conflict between recreationists, as well as greater potential disturbance to wildlife. To better understand the environmental characteristics favored by winter recreationists, and thus predict areas of potential conflict or disturbance, we modeled terrain selection of motorized and non-motorized recreationists, including snowmobile, backcountry ski, and snowmobile-assisted hybrid ski. We used sports recorder Global Positioning System (GPS) devices carried by recreationists at two study areas in Colorado, USA, (Vail Pass and the San Juan Mountains), to record detailed tracks of each recreation type. For each recreation activity, we modeled selection of remotely-sensed environmental characteristics, including topography, vegetation, climate, and road access. We then created spatial maps depicting areas that recreation activities were predicted to select and combined these maps to show areas of potential ecological disturbance or interpersonal conflict between motorized and non-motorized activities. Model results indicate that motorized and non-motorized activities select different environmental characteristics, while still exhibiting some similarities, such as selection for ease of access, reflected in proximity to highways and densities of open forest roads. Areas predicted to have only motorized recreation were more likely to occur further from highways, with greater forest road densities, lower canopy cover, and smoother, less steep terrain, while areas with only non-motorized recreation were closer to highways, with lower forest road densities, more canopy cover and steeper terrain. Our work provides spatially detailed insights into terrain characteristics favored by recreationists, allowing managers to maintain winter recreation opportunities while reducing interpersonal conflict or ecological impacts to sensitive wildlife. [show more]
ID: Monitoring Fisheries Response to Aquatic Habitat Restoration
Monitoring Fisheries Response to Aquatic Habitat Restoration
Type:
Subjects:
Item
view first image of Monitoring Fisheries Response to Aquatic Habitat Restoration<br />
Monitoring Fisheries Response to Aquatic Habitat Restoration
Description:

Led By

Matt Kondratieff​ and Eric Richer ​

Study Area

Wason and La Garita Ranches, Rio Grande River

Project Status

Ongoing

Research Objectives

  • To determine how fish and aquatic invertebrates respond to different stream habitat restoration approaches
  • To evaluate if stream habitat restoration is an effective management technique

Project Description

Human-caused habitat changes and non-native species result in the degradation and pollution of Colorado's streams and rivers. Fortunately, stream restoration efforts show promise as a means to aid species recovery, improve inland water quality and create new areas for wildlife habitat and recreational activities. Over the years, the U.S. has seen billions of dollars poured into stream and river restoration projects. However, very few of these projects actually included monitoring components after the project was completed. Without any form of assessment, researchers cannot determine the overall success and effectiveness of stream and river restoration.

In 2006, the Wason Ranch completed a large-scale habitat improvement project on approximately 3.8 miles of the Rio Grande River. Historic cattle grazing, logging and mining activities had eroded stream banks and degraded instream habitat, leading to a decline in the fishery. Goals for the project included: (1) stabilize eroding stream banks, (2) restore river depths to previous conditions, (3) restore the river channel and adjacent banks to pre-cattle grazing conditions, and (4) reestablish riparian vegetation. The overarching objective of the project was to increase trout density, biomass, and abundance of quality-sized fish (14 inches and larger).

CPW initiated a long-term monitoring project to assess the fishery responses to stream habitat restoration on the Wason Ranch. Researchers are monitoring changes in the quantity and quality of trout, as well as densities of aquatic invertebrates. Resear​ch findings will generate useful information for determining the degree of fishery improvement that can be expected from stream restoration projects. Results will also be used to refine future habitat restoration techniques to benefit both trout fisheries and anglers. ​

Associated Publications

Kondratieff, M.C. 2012. Stream Habitat Investigations and Assistance, Job Progress Report. Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Fort Collins, Colorado. 65 pp.​

Kondratieff, M.C. and E.E. Richer. 2014. Stream Habitat Investigations and Assistance, Job Progress Report. Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Fort Collins, Colorado. 68 pp. [show more]
ID: Moose
Moose
Type:
Subjects:
Item
view first image of Moose
Moose
Description:

CPW website species profile: MooseAfter successful reintroduction efforts, Colorado’s Shiras moose​​ population exceeds 2,000 animals statewide. With stable to increasing and spatially expanding populations, moose can now be hunted in the state during regulated seasons. In order to make informed licensing decisions, wildlife managers need adequate and reliable data on moose populations in the state.

Moose Research Projects:

 [show more]
ID: Moose calf detection probabilities: quantification and evaluation of a ground-based survey technique
Moose calf detection probabilities: quantification and evaluation of a ground-based survey technique
Type: Article
Subjects: Alces alces
Colorado
Detection probability
Ground-surveys
Moose
Occupancy models
Item
view first image of Moose calf detection probabilities: quantification and evaluation of a ground-based survey technique
Moose calf detection probabilities: quantification and evaluation of a ground-based survey technique
Type:Article
Subject:Alces alces
Colorado
Detection probability
Ground-surveys
Moose
Occupancy models
Description:Survey data improve population management, yet those data often have associated bias. We quantified one source of bias in moose survey data (observer detection probability, p), by using repeated ground-observations of calves-at-heel of radio-collared moose in Colorado, USA. Detection probabilities, which varied both spatially and temporally, were estimated using an occupancy-modelling framework. We provide an efficient offset for modelled calf-at-heel occupancy (ψ) estimates that accommodates summer calf mortality. Detection probabilities were most efficiently modelled with seasonal variation, with the lowest probability of detecting calves-at-heel occurring during parturition (i.e. May) and later autumn periods (after August). Our most efficiently modelled detection probability estimate for summer was 0.80 (SE = 0.05). During the four years of this study, ψ estimates ranged from 0.54–0.84 (SE = 0.08–0.11). Accounting for 91.7% monthly calf survival corrected ψ estimates downward (ψ = 0.42–0.65). Our results suggest that repeated ground-based observations of individual cow moose, during summer months, can be can a cost-effective strategy for estimating a productivity parameter for moose. Ground survey results can be further improved by accounting for calf mortality. [show more]
ID: Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet (2013)
Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet (2013)
Type: Fact Sheet
Subjects: Moose
<em>Alces alces</em>
Wildlife management
Item
view first image of Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet (2013)
Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet (2013)
Type:Fact Sheet
Subject:Moose
<em>Alces alces</em>
Wildlife management
Description:Moose, (Alces alces), are the largest members of the deer family and are found in the northern regions of North America, Europe and Asia. Moose prefer habitat near lakes, rivers or wetlands, where they feed on young plants including shrubs, aquatic plants, grasses, mosses, willow, and aspen. [show more]
ID: Mortality of mule deer fawns in a natural gas development area
Mortality of mule deer fawns in a natural gas development area
Type: Article
Subjects: Anthropogenic disturbances
Colorado
Mule deer
Natural gas development
<em>Odocoileus hemionus</em>
Population dynamics
Predation
Survival
Item
view first image of Mortality of mule deer fawns in a natural gas development area
Mortality of mule deer fawns in a natural gas development area
Type:Article
Subject:Anthropogenic disturbances
Colorado
Mule deer
Natural gas development
<em>Odocoileus hemionus</em>
Population dynamics
Predation
Survival
Description:Recent natural gas development has caused concern among wildlife managers, researchers, and stakeholders over the potential effects on wildlife and their habitats. Specifically, understanding how this development and other factors influence mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) fawn (i.e., 0–6 months old) mortality rates, recruitment, and subsequently population dynamics have been identified as knowledge gaps. Thus, we tested predictions concerning the relationship between natural gas development, adult female, fawn birth, and temporal (weather) characteristics on fawn mortality in the Piceance Basin of northwestern Colorado, USA, from 2012–2014. We captured and radio-collared 184 fawns and estimated apparent cause-specific mortality in areas with relatively high or low levels of natural gas development using a multi-state model. Mean daily predation probability was similar in the high versus low development areas. Predation was the leading cause of fawn mortality in both areas and decreased from 0–14 days old. Black bear (Ursus americanus; 22% of all mortalities, n = 17) and cougar (Felis concolor; 36% of all mortalities, n = 6) predation was the leading cause of mortality in the high and low development areas, respectively. Predation of fawns was negatively correlated with the distance from a female's core area to a producing well pad on winter or summer range. Contrary to expectations, predation of fawns was positively correlated with rump fat thickness of adult females. Well pad densities and development activity were relatively low during our study, indicating that the observed intensity of development did not appear to influence daily predation probability. Our results suggest maintaining development activity thresholds at levels we observed to potentially minimize the effects of development on fawn mortality. However, we caution that higher development intensity and drilling activity in flatter, less rugged areas with less concealment cover could influence fawn mortality. Managers should maintain low development densities in areas where topography and vegetation offer less concealment. Overall, region-specific data (e.g., development intensity, topography, predator assemblages, and associated predation risk) are needed to better understand the effects of natural gas development on fawn mortality. [show more]
ID: Most commonly asked questions about urban coyotes
Most commonly asked questions about urban coyotes
Type: Text
Subjects: Coyotes
Item
view first image of Most commonly asked questions about urban coyotes
Most commonly asked questions about urban coyotes
Type:Text
Subject:Coyotes
Description:Coyotes have always been in the city, but reports of conflicts are on the rise. Residential areas provide habitat (food, water, shelter and space) for coyotes. Plentiful food sources exist such as mice, rabbits, squirrels, and voles. Urban coyotes have also learned to take advantage of the ample human-associated foods, such as garbage, pet food, bird seed and compost piles. Some coyotes have also learned that unattended pets are an easy food source. Shelter and water can be found in parks, yards and natural areas. [show more]
ID: Mountain Lion
Mountain Lion
Type:
Subjects:
Item
view first image of Mountain Lion
Mountain Lion
Description:

Mountain lions​, also known as cougars or pumas, reign as Colorado's largest cat. However, in recent years, human and mountain lion interactions have increased, prompting research projects focused on testing potential management solutions and collecting information about mountain lion behavior and population dynamics. The results of this research will also help wildlife managers set harvest quotas.

 [show more]
ID: Mountain Lion Demographics and Human Interactions Along the Urban-Exurban Front Range
Mountain Lion Demographics and Human Interactions Along the Urban-Exurban Front Range
Type:
Subjects:
Item
view first image of Mountain Lion Demographics and Human Interactions Along the Urban-Exurban Front Range
Mountain Lion Demographics and Human Interactions Along the Urban-Exurban Front Range
Description:

Led ByMat Alldredge​

Study AreaBoulder and Jefferson Counties

Project StatusCompleted - Read the ​June 2016 Wildlife Research Report​.​

Research Objectives

  • To assess mountain lion population demographics, movements, habitat use, prey selectivity and human interactions along the urban-exurban Front Range.
  • To assess conditioning techniques to keep mountain lions away from urban/exurban areas.
  • To assess mountain lion response to relocation.

Project Description

Colorado Parks and Wildlife found that most people find value in maintaining Colorado's mountain lion population in a 2005 public opinion survey. However, concern is growing over increased human-mountain lion conflicts. As a result, CPW initiated a long-term study to test various management strategies to reduce conflict and to collect data on mountain lion populations. 

Researchers focused the study on two management strategies: aversive conditioning, a method used to train mountain lions to stay away from urban/exurban areas, and relocation, a method that must be used if a mountain lion is found in a residential neighborhood.

Because most human-mountain lion interactions occurred in residential neighborhoods, researchers had few possibilities to implement conditioning techniques, thus its effectiveness as a management technique led to mixed results. 

In the past, relocation has also shown mixed results, but renewed interest in this management technique prompted researchers to explore this method in more detail. Relocation if not planned properly, can result in subsequent conflicts or the animal's death. Therefore, a successful relocation requires a relocation site that is far enough from the problem area, has suitable prey, and is remote enough so that future conflicts do not occur. 

To collect data on mountain lion feeding behaviors, researchers captured and outfitted mountain lions with GPS collars. These collars transmitted GPS coordinates for each cat every three hours, which allowed researchers to identify likely kill sites. GPS data also allowed researchers to collect data on mountain lion movement and habitat use. 

Graduate students and professionals used the GPS data collected during this project to investigate other research questions related to mountain lion population demographics and feeding behavior. Summaries of these projects are listed below.

Mountain Lion Foraging in an Urban to Rural Landscape

This project aimed to collect data on mountain lion feeding practices. Using data from mountain lions with GPS collars, researchers determined when and where mountain lions killed their prey in relation to human development and habitat. 

Modeling Movements of Mountain Lions

Researchers developed movement models and examined mountain lion GPS data for various movement patterns relative to roads, human density/activity, and other landscape/environmental features.

Predator-Prey Dynamics in Relation to Chronic Wasting Disease and Scavenging Interactions at Mountain Lion Kill Sites

This project aimed to document how often scavengers, such as black bears or red foxes, try to steal mountain lion kills and how successful they are in the process. Using motion-sensor cameras, researchers determined the average time it took for competing scavengers to arrive at a kill site and if the scavenger was successful at driving away the mountain lion. In addition, if a mountain lion killed a deer, elk or moose, the carcass was tested for chronic wasting disease. This allowed researchers to test the theory that predators seek out sick, old and young prey.  

The Use of Lures, Hair Snares, and Snow Tracking as Non-invasive Sampling Techniques to Detect and Identify Mountain Lions

This project aimed to test the use of non-invasive genetic sampling techniques to estimate population size, which is used to set harvest quotas, evaluate management practices and understand predator-prey dynamics. Researchers developed and evaluated snow tracking and hair snags for their potential use in non-invasive population sampling.  The use of calls to lure mountain lions into a hair snag was a novel concept that has shown great potential for future use. CPW initiated a long-term project to build on this work work. [show more]
ID: Mountain Whitefish
Mountain Whitefish
Type:
Subjects:
Item
view first image of Mountain Whitefish
Mountain Whitefish
Description:

One of only two salmonids native to Colorado, the mountain whitefish was historically found in just the Yampa and White River drainages in the northwestern part of the state. Alarming declines in the Yampa River in the late 1990s spurred interest in this relatively unstudied species. Similar declines were documented in almost every other state across the native range during the same time period, while other populations in neighboring drainages often remained robust.

Mountain Whitefish work group

A working group was established in January 2009, out of a gathering held in Silverthorne, Colorado to review what little we know about mountain whitefish and to direct future research efforts. To be included in this group and receive subsequent mailings, please contact kevin.rogers@state.co.us.

Documents of interest to group members include:

Mountain Whitefish Research

Monitoring mountain whitefish populations

Biologists are using electrofishing and mark-recapture methods to evaluate mountain whitefish population size in Colorado drainages where fish are native (Yampa and White Rivers), as well as where these fish were relocated in the 1940s (Cache la Poudre and Colorado Rivers). Population monitoring is essential for evaluating the health of these fisheries.

Whirling disease and Mountain Whitefish

Though numerous studies have explored the sensitivity of various trout subspecies to whirling disease, little has been done with mountain whitefish despite being one of only two salmonids native to Colorado. Recent declines in mountain whitefish populations in the Yampa River have been blamed on predation by northern pike and drought-induced low river flows, particularly in the summer of 2002. However, whirling disease also invaded this drainage in the late 1990s. This study was conducted to examine the role whirling disease might have played in the decline of Yampa River mountain whitefish populations.

Vulnerability to whirling disease is being explored by raising captive mountain whitefish fry, exposing them to known quantities of the parasite, then evaluating survival and subsequent infection. This research is ongoing.

Water quality

The coincident decline of mountain whitefish populations during the drought experienced in the early part of this decade led biologists to believe that elevated water temperatures might have been at least partially responsible. Thermal tolerances of mountain whitefish fry are currently being studied at the Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory in Fort Collins.

In addition, sensitivity to several metals was evaluated in mountain whitefish embryo, larvae and fry. Acute and chronic toxicity tests results indicate that mountain whitefish are similar to other salmonids in their sensitivity to cadmium and zinc. However, whitefish were very sensitive to copper exposure. Additional details on toxicity test results can be found in the Water Pollution Studies Federal Aid Report (pages 10-22).

 [show more]