Evidence and importance of subgrouping behavior in javelina populations in south Texas /.
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| Other Authors: | , , |
| Format: | Thesis Book |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
1982.
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Link to ProQuest copy Link to OAKTrust copy ProQuest, Abstract |
| Abstract: | Subgrouping behavior of javelina populations in two brushland habitats in south Texas was examined from June 1979 through February 1981. This study was couched within an effects of hunting study framework. In each habitat, 3 javelina herds were monitored by radio telemetry-aided field observations and helicopter censuses. Observations suggest that javelina herds in south Texas are not always together. One explanation for this phenomenon is that the herds are breaking down into subgroups. Although data suggest that javelina herds in south Texas frequently break into subgroups, there appears to be no interchange of animals between herds. Observed subgroups are described and characterized. Herd home range sizes of javelina herds appear to be strongly influenced by habitat type, while herd size appears to be independent of habitat type. In February 1980 and February 1981, controlled harvests were held to remove roughly 0%, 20%, and 40%, respectively, from the 3 herds in each habitat. Data on the number of animals in each herd obtained from preand post-harvest observations were analyzed using a series of one way analyses of variance. Results suggest that both harvest levels reduced average subgroup size, survivorship of young, and production of young in less dense habitats, but did not affect herds in denser habitats in terms of subgroup size, survivorship of young, or production of young. In light of the subgrouping behavior, these results were uninterpretable. Wildlife managers dealing with javelina often estimate javelina populations using a formula in which the largest number observed or average number observed is used as an estimate of average total herd size. In south Texas, use of these estimates may cause significant underestimates of javelina populations. |
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| Item Description: | "Major subject: Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences." Typescript (photocopy). Vita. |
| Physical Description: | x, 82 leaves : illustrations ; 29 cm |
| Bibliography: | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 73-81). |