| Population dynamics of ungulates are often influenced
by survival of juveniles, which is typically low and variable. Mule deer
neonates are the most susceptible to predation following parturition due to
their limited mobility. Thus, parturient females should select birth sites
which increase the likelihood of survival by neonates following birth. We
measured a variety of habitat characteristics at birth sites and random sites
to determine selection of birth sites by parturient females. We used resource
selection functions in a use-availability design to examine selection of birth
sites. We created models using a mixed effects logistic regression with the
female as the random effect. We used Akaike's Information Criterion adjusted for small sample
size (AICc) to evaluate model support. We model averaged the top models with
delta AICc values under 2. Our best model showed significant selection
of birth sites with increased canopy cover, woody debris, and placement
on South facing slopes. South facing slopes are typically warmer and xeric
affecting the plant species present. Woody debris increases hiding cover for
neonates while canopy cover can influence microsite temperatures as well as
provide pockets of light increasing camouflage of neonates. |