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Ryan Rothstein


Ryan Rothstein

Ryan Rothstein

Texas A&M University – Kingsville

Year Received: 2017

MS Candidate/ Range and Wildlife Sciences/ Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute

Effects of White-tailed Deer Density on Antler Growth and Buck Movement Patterns

While white-tailed deer have been intensively studied, little is known about the impact of deer density on antler growth and buck movement patterns during the rut and post-rut.  My study is taking place on the Comanche and Faith ranches in Dimmit County, TX.  Each ranch has six 200-acre enclosures with varying deer densities and feeders (0 deer/1 feeder; 20 deer/1 feeder; 40 deer/1 feeder; 60 deer/1 feeder; 60 deer/3 feeders; and 80 deer/4 feeders). 

To evaluate antler growth, I created a photo file of all known-age (captured and tagged as a fawn or yearling) bucks from 1.5-8.5 years of age.  I then uploaded the photos into the scoring software Buckscore™ to measure gross Boone & Crockett (GBC) score.  Once this is completed, I will analyze the GBC scores by age class to determine if density influences antler growth. 

In December 2016, I placed 35 GPS collars on bucks in 3 enclosures on each ranch.  Once collars have been collected, I will analyze the data to determine what time of day and how far bucks were moving during the rut and post-rut.  The results of my study should aid deer managers in making decisions concerning their buck management and harvest objectives. 

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