Environmental Impact - Wildlife/Vegetation Effects

Ferns, R. M., & Kutiiek, M.J. (1989). Responses of black-tailed deer to off-highway vehicles in Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area Hollister, CA. Department of Biological Sciences, San Jose State University: 42pp.

Abstract

The responses of black-tailed deer were studied at Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation area in Hollister, CA. Researchers captured 14 female deer and equipped them with radio-collars. Movements, habitat use, and activity levels were recorded for one year and compared with OHV levels. Home range sizes for deer living within the riding area were similar to those of previously studied deer populations living in similar habitats but were not exposed to OHV use. No significant correlation was found between OHV activity levels and deer activity levels. Deer generally avoided OHV riding areas during peak use but returned to their established home ranges after traffic levels subsided. Studies have shown that animals reacted minimally to disturbances on established trails and roads but there were increased responses to disturbances where none had occurred before. Researchers found that home-ranges of deer at Hollister Hills were centered around water and food supplies. It is recommended that future trails are developed away from major drainages and other preferred habitat types. An effort should also be made to educate trail users and encourage them to ride only on established trails.

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