R. L. Marchinton

A field study was undertaken to: 1) determine if a large number of freeranging white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) could be marked with tetracycline hydrochloride (THC), and, if successful, 2) assess use of supplemental feed by deer. Shelled corn treated with THC (approximately 300 mg/0.45 kg) was distributed (18 Jul-3 Aug 1992) on a commercial hunting club in South Carolina that supplementally fed white-tailed deer. Mandibles collected from 784 hunterharvested deer (15 Aug 1992-1 Jan 1993) were evaluated for THC marks. Of those, 67.8% from the club where treated corn was deposited...

We compared production, utilization, and protein levels of 3 ladino clovers (Trifolium repens) in northeastern Georgia. Three 0.2-ha clover plots were planted side by side in 2 separate fields on Chestatee Wildlife Management Area. Samples were clipped, weighed, and analyzed monthly for a 26-month period beginning in April 1990. All clovers were utilized very heavily by deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and other wildlife averaging 392 kg/ha per month dry weight totalling 10,210 kg/ha for the study. With data for both fields combined, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in...

We developed a simple device to remotely trigger a drop-net without the use of blasting caps. It uses standard telemetry equipment and allows release of the net from a distance limited only by transmitter range. The device proved reliable and safe for capturing white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and significantly increased trapping efficiency and success.

Differential development of reproductive characteristics and sex organs among age classes of male white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) during the breeding season was studied in west-central South Carolina. Blood samples and reproductive organs were obtained from 292 hunter-harvested deer from 26 October through 21 December 1985. Peak serum testosterone concentrations of ≥3.5-yearold deer occurred during the first week of the study, whereas peak concentrations in younger deer occurred approximately 4 weeks later. Testosterone concentrations were higher (P < 0.03) in older age...

Telemetry information from 15 black bears (Ursus americanus) in northeastern Georgia were analyzed relative to den use, habitat type, elevation, and proximity to paved roads. Upland hardwoods, located at higher elevations and farther from paved roads, were preferred, especially by adult females during the denning season. These and other findings were used to evaluate the impact of proposed wilderness areas. Major advantages would include protection of den trees and hard mast supplies associated with mature hardwood stands. Reduced accessibility to humans should increase bear survival and...