A comparison of elk-vehicle collisions patterns with demographic and abundance data in the Central Canadian Rocky Mountains
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Date
2021-09
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nevada Department of Transportation
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.
Description
Keywords
Elk-vehicle collision; Central Canadian Rocky Mountains; sex and age demographics; traffic volume; abundance; mitigation planning
Citation
Gunson KE, Clevenger AP, Ford AT, editors. Final Report 2022: A comparison of elk-vehicle collisions patterns with demographic and abundance data in the central Canadian Rocky Mountains. Transportation Pooled Fund Study, TPF-5(358). Nevada Department of Transportation, Carson City, NV.