Predicting Bison Migration out of Yellowstone National Park Using Bayesian Models

A Bayesian modeling approach reveals that bison migration from Yellowstone National Park is influenced by herd size, snow water equivalent, and dried biomass, with significant variations depending on the park boundary. The study predicts that allowing more bison to migrate during severe climate conditions could prevent large-scale population reductions. This research demonstrates how integrating long-distance migration dynamics into management policies can mitigate conflicts and protect migratory ungulate populations.

Geremia, C., White, P. J., Wallen, R. L., Watson, F. G. R., Treanor, J. J., Borkowski, J., Potter, C. S., & Crabtree, R. L. (2011). Predicting Bison Migration out of Yellowstone National Park Using Bayesian Models. PLoS ONE, 6(2), e16848. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0016848