A comparison of elk-vehicle collisions patterns with demographic and abundance data in the Central Canadian Rocky Mountains

Abstract

This study looks at the patterns and processes of elk-vehicle collisions in the Central Canadian Rocky Mountains and analyses the demographic structure of the wildlife involved in the collisions. Key findings included: males and subadults were more prone to elk-vehicle collisions; collisions occur more commonly in the fall season; all healthy elk are susceptible to vehicle collisions; the magnitude of elk collision was negatively correlated to traffic volumes, because abundance of elk greatly decreased during the study period; and elk abundance was the primary driver influencing occurrence of collisions over time. Collectively, these results will help inform the design of mitigation measures targeting the most vulnerable demographics of a population, i.e. subadults and male elk in the fall.