USGS WLCI Fact Sheet 6: Observations of Elk Movement Patterns on Fossil Butte National Monument

Observations of Elk Movement Patterns on Fossil Butte National Monument

By Edward M. Olexa, Suzanna C. Soileau, and Leslie A. Allen

Abstract

The elk herd that frequents Fossil Butte National Monument, a subset of the West Green River elk population, provides visitors with seasonal opportunities to view an iconic species of the western United States. Throughout the year, these elk range across a variety of private, State, and Federal lands within close proximity to the Monument. These lands are managed differently for various uses which can create challenging wildlife-management issues and influence the herd’s seasonal movements and distribution. Research lead by the USGS investigates some of the factors associated with these seasonal changes.

First posted November 7, 2014

Report PDF (2.65 MB)

For additional information contact:
Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center
U.S. Geological Survey
2327 University Way, Suite 2
Bozeman, MT 59715
http://www.nrmsc.usgs.gov/

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Suggested citation:

Olexa, E.M., Soileau, S.C., and Allen, L.A., 2014, Observations of elk movement patterns on Fossil Butte National Monument: WLCI Fact Sheet 6, 2 p., https://pubs.usgs.gov/wlci/fs/6/.