Experimental Analysis of Ecosystem Mechanisms Engendering Ungulate Spatial Concentrations

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ABSTRACT9903845McNaughtonExperimental analysis of ecosystem mechanisms engendering ungulate spatial concentrationsThis research will utilize experimental manipulations of nutrient cycling to determine whether it is possible to attract large, wild, grazing mammals to new landscape facets previously lightly grazed. Minerals particularly important to the adequate nutrition of reproductive animals, pregnant and lactating females and growing young, will be added to the soil and their cycling, through plants and animals, will be monitored. The research has applications to both the fundamental organization of ecosystems supporting large herds of free-ranging mammalian herbivores and to management of mammals subject to severe poaching by illegal hunters, since it tests whether it is possible to create animal-favored habitats remote from poacher access.