We studied the social dynamics and behaviors of black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hermionus columbianus) during spring migration to evaluate how these characteristics may influence estimates of herd composition on the spring staging area. Large aggregations of the Cow Creek Herd, at an intermediate elevation between winter and summer ranges in Shasta County, California, were monitored daily to identify times of arrival and departure of marked animals and numbers of deer by age and sex class. Dates of first arrival, duration on the staging area, fawn:doe ratios, and cessation of staging behavior differed significantly between 1986 and 1987. The implications of these findings on herd censuses are discussed.
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