Influence of Density and Climate on Population Dynamics of a Large Herbivore Under Harsh Environmental Conditions

A study on Anticosti Island, Canada, reveals that population density and autumn-spring climate conditions significantly influence the dynamics of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), a large herbivore thriving at its northern range limit under harsh environmental conditions. Despite severe winters with scarce forage and abundant snow, the population showed increased growth over 23 years, with adult survival rates comparable to other populations but lower reproduction rates. Density at estrus primarily affected reproduction in younger females (2–4 years old) and prime-aged females (5–9 years), while spring conditions favoring high-quality forage likely impacted neonatal survival in older females (≥10 years). Unlike typical northern ungulate studies, this research highlights the dominant role of autumn-spring climate alongside density rather than winter severity. These findings underscore the importance of considering population density and seasonal climate in management strategies for such populations.

Simard, M. A., Coulson, T., Gingras, A., & Co̧té, S. D. (2010). Influence of Density and Climate on Population Dynamics of a Large Herbivore Under Harsh Environmental Conditions. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 74(8), 1671–1685. Portico. https://doi.org/10.2193/2009-258