Environmental Impact - Wildlife/Vegetation Effects

Chester, J. M. (1976). Human-wildlife interactions in the Gallatin Range, Yellowstone National Park. Montana State University, Bozeman.

Abstract

The relationships between the intensity and kinds of human use and the distribution, movements, and behavior of seven species of wildlife in the backcountry areas of the Gallatin Range in Yellowstone National Park were investigated in 1973 and 1974. Except for minor shifts in elk distribution around campsites, variation in the intensity of human use did not appear to be responsible for shifts in wildlife distribution. Wildlife encounters most commonly occurred at distances between 100 and 300 feet, Encounter distances were shortest for mule deer and moose and greatest for bears.

Except for deer and coyotes, which were usually alert or running, all species were most commonly feeding when first observed. In response to knowledge of human presence, the moose was most likely to stand its ground, while bears were the least likely. Wildlife belligerency toward humans was rare. When it did occur, bear and moose were usually involved. Groups of four or more persons experienced lower observation frequencies than smaller groups. Parties of two or less were most likely to encounter grizzly bears. The use of noise did not appear to affect the frequency of wildlife observations or encounters.

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