Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Approximately 48% of 211 American eel, Anguilla rostrata, collected from brackish portions of Cooper River, South Carolina, were infested with 1 or more ectoparasitic species representing 2 classes, Monogenea and Crustacea. Seasonal and host size- and age-related variations in the levels of parasitism of Ergasilus cerastes and E. celestis were observed. These variations in levels of parasitism are discussed with a proposed life history for E. cerastes in southern waters.

Natural and induced production of striped bass hybrids was examined under controlled tank conditions. Four culture female F1 hybrid bass (striped bass, Morone saxatalis x white bass, M. chrysops) received human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and ovulated, but only 2 spawned eggs. These eggs, deposited in fresh water, were fertilized by HCG-treated cultured male F1 hybrids. One untreated (no HCG) female F1 hybrid which was paired with 2 untreated male F1 hybrids and held in brackish water (13 ppt salinity) also tank spawned and fertilized eggs were produced. This is the first documented case of a non-induced “natural” tank spawn among these striped bass hybrids. Hatch rates for the F1 x F1 hybrid cross were low. One attempt to induce a tank spawn between a HCG treated female white bass and 2 similarly treated male striped bass was not successful.

Population estimates were calculated for a known young-of-the-year (Y-O-Y) largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) population in a Piedmont North Carolina pond. Bass were collected by electrofishing for 6 consecutive nights. Estimates were derived using capture-recapture (Chapman, Chapman modified Peterson, Schnabel, and Schumacher-Eschmeyer) and removal (Leslie and DeLury) methods. Accuracy and bias of population estimates for each method were assessed from a statistical framework. All methods gave negatively biased estimates. Schumacher-Eschmeyer and DeLury exponential catchability models gave minimally-biased, accurate estimates within 12% to 17% of the true population. Independent Chapman estimates also gave acceptable results (known population within 95% confidence limits) when at least 56% of the known population was marked and the number of sampling occasions >4.

The U.S. Forest Service has been trying to improve the fish population structure of 120 flood control lakes and ponds in the National Forests of Mississippi and Louisiana. Recent efforts have included supplemental stocking, complete eradication of existing populations followed by restocking, and selective species eradication. Since 1978, 36 lakes, 25 ponds and 59 livestock and wildlife watering ponds varying in size from 0.1 to 940.5 ha have undergone fish population alteration. Fifty-three of these lakes and ponds were completely restocked, while 57 have received supplemental stocking. Preferred species combinations in restocking programs have been largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) and redear sunfish (L. microlophus), and channel catfish (lctalurus punctatus) at rates of 20,200,20, and l2-45/ha respectively. Supplementally stocked species have been largemouth bass (M. salmoides), spotted bass (M. punctulatust, Florida bass (M.

As an evaluation of Oklahoma's Standardized Sampling Procedures (SSP), Lakes Arbuckle and Thunderbird were electrofished monthly from April through October 1983. Monthly largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) population structure indices and length frequencies were calculated from blocks of effort and increasing sample sizes. Reliability of estimates was determined by comparisons with values calculated from total monthly effort and catch. Spring and fall indices and length frequencies calculated from sample sizes of 150 bass or 5 hours of electrofishing effort were considered adequate to accurately reflect population structure.

A condenser cooling water (CCW) tap valve, a pump-net system, a fine mesh screen and a stationary net were used to measure larval fish entrainment at a power plant and were compared on the basis of relative efficiency, reliability, and cost. Mean densities of shad (Dorosoma sp.) collected were highest when using the CCW tap valve. Concurrent trawl samples indicated that mean densities in the pump-net and tap samples responded to changes in larval fish mean densities in the reservoir proximal to the plant intake. Overall, the CCW tap was determined to be the most efficient, reliable and cost effective method.

In 1980 and 1981, bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus, were collected concurrently and in adjacent littoral areas of West Point Lake, a 10,480-ha reservoir (Alabama-Georgia), by seining (S) and by poisoning with rotenone (R). A statistical comparison of total stomach content volume and individual food item volume for Sand R fish was conducted to determine if rotenone caused either gorging or regurgitation of food as reported for some piscivorous fishes. Stomach contents of 744 R and 1,121 S fish were examined. Data were paired by date, site, and fish size. Although significant differences in total stomach content volume for Rand S fish were detected in the majority of comparisons, the number of incidences in which a larger food volume occurred was about evenly divided between Rand S fish. Similar results were observed when comparisons were made on the basis of individual food items.

Instead of hatcheries having quotas based strictly on number of fish, it would be more desirable to set quotas in terms of “hatchery benefit units.” This can be done once the range of the relative survival of different sized individuals in various lakes for different species is known. In 2 Illinois reservoirs, the relative survival of walleye fingerlings (Stizostedion vitreum) was 62.1 times greater than fry in Collins Pond and 15.9 times greater than fry in Little Grassy Lake.

Habitat use by bobcats (Lynx rufus) was investigated in 1978-79 in forested uplands of Louisiana by monitoring 7 radio-collared adult bobcats (3 females, 4 males). Mean male home range (x = 1,010 ha) did not differ significantly from female ranges (x = 591 ha). Distances traveled during a diel period ranged from 0.5 Ian to 10.2 km and averaged 3.0 Ian. Mean diel travel distances of males (2.8 km) were similar to those of females (3.3 km). Botanical composition of habitats within modified minimum home ranges averaged 40.1% mixed pine (Pinus spp.)-hardwood, 18.1% hardwood, 5.4% pine, and 36.4% nonforested. Bobcats appeared to use hardwood habitat in greater proportion to availability and avoided other habitats.

In 1981, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation provided 8 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) to the LeFlore County Fox and Wolf Hunter's Association for experimental stocking. On 1 September 1981, 4 wild foxes and 4 pen-reared foxes were released into LeFlore County, Oklahoma. Six of the foxes were equipped with radio-transmitters. By the end of the study, 2 November 1981, 5 of the 6 radio equipped foxes had died. The radio-transmitter of the sixth fox failed, and the fate of this fox is unknown.

A stochastic computer model was written to simulate the dynamics of red fox (Vulpes vulpes) populations in Kentucky. The model consists of the main module equations and 2 submodules: ASMOSU and BIRTH. Main module equations calculate the number and density of individuals in each age class and the total population. ASMOSU calculates all total and age specific mortality rates. BIRTH calculates the number of individuals recruited into the 0.5-year age class. The model is useful for evaluating scenarios for red fox management in Kentucky because, except for minor exceptions, it validly simulates changes in red fox population dynamics. The model is most sensitive to perturbations in the input values of fecundity, the area inhabited by the population, and the parasitism mortality rate.

Reproductive tracts from 89 3-year-old female river otters (Lutra canadensis), from Louisiana were examined. Eighteen of these were in a reproductive phase out of synchrony with the expected population norms. Eight of 32 otters had fewer embryos than corpora lutea, indicating intrauterine mortality in 25% of the sample. Chemical analyses of liver tissue from 57 otters revealed a low prevalence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and organochlorine pesticide contamination. These low levels of organochlorine compounds were not associated with atypical reproductive synchrony or intrauterine mortality.

Landowners in North Carolina leased hunting rights on about .91 million ha (12%) of forest land for about $3 million in 1984. Large proportions of forest land were leased in the northern (30%) and southern (26%) coastal plains. Average tract size leased in the northern coastal plain was 550 ha and in the southern coastal plain was 389 ha. In the Piedmont, the proportion of leased land (12%) was substantially less than in the coastal plain, and average tract size was only 154 ha. Only about 3% of mountain land was leased for hunting with an average tract size of 117 ha. The average lease rate was $3.09 per ha, and was expected to rise to $4.03 per ha in the near future. A near-term increase of about 5% in amount of leased acreage for hunting was indicated. Deer was the most important game species on leased land, but quail was the species most owners preferred to increase.

Nineteen black bears (Ursus americanus) equipped with transmitter units were monitored on the Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina from May 1981-December 1982. Home ranges of males (61.0 km2) were 3.6 times greater than female home ranges (16.9 km2). Fall shuffles were not observed possibly due to the abundance and diversity of mast on the study area. Extensive overlap between reproductive females was observed, and the home ranges of adult males overlapped some female home ranges more than others. Dispersal of 2 subadult males occurred after they began using the same area as an adult male. Increased activity and variation in travel distances during the fall suggested that bears were foraging for mast that would prepare them for denning. Bears used all oak types, except scarlet oak, according to mast abundance; scarlet oak areas were used the least of any oak forest type.

White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) fawns were fed calf-creep feed (12% crude protein) ad libitum in pens where either ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) or subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) was planted for winter feed. During a 143-day period (29 Nov 1984-21 Mar 1985) fawns in the pen with ryegrass gained (x ± SE) 9.65 ± 2.4 kg/fawn while those in the pen with subterranean clover gained an average of 18.8 ± 2.5 kg/fawn. Differences were significant (P < 0.10) and were not influenced by sex. Use of calf creep feed per deer was not significantly different between the 2 treatments.

A white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) population model is described which utilizes numbers and the age structure of animals taken in either sex harvests to predict population levels, future harvests and harvest levels required to manage properly the populations. The model predicted Kentucky's deer harvest within 5.1% from 1980 through 1984. Model design, harvest management decisions, and microcomputer utilities are discussed.

During the summers of 1981 and 1982, 48 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) fawns were captured and radio-collared on the Cat and South island portions of the Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center, Georgetown, South Carolina. Significantly (x2 = 4.10, P < 0.05) more male fawns were captured than females. Telemetry and visual locations (N = 731, range = 18 to 224) were taken on 11 fawns. All fawns utilized open inter-tidal marsh/marsh edge habitat. Home range and activity of individual fawns were highly variable. Mortality of radio collared fawns was 84.4% (38 of 45). Marking activities were directly responsible for the death of 3 fawns. Of the 45 fawns included in the mortality analysis, 89.5% died within 1 month of age. High fawn mortality may regulate or stabilize the size of the South Island deer population.

Data were taken on 1,103 pregnant white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) harvested from the Savannah River Plant in South Carolina from 1965-1985 to describe temporal, age specific, and habitat effects on fetal number. Time periods were thought to represent periods of high and low population density. Age was the most significant factor in altering fetal number both with and without the data from the fawns included. Low fetal numbers per doe in 0.5- and 1.5-year-old deer and a high incidence of twinning in the older deer was responsible for this effect. Mean number of fetuses per doe for the 0.5-year-old deer (x = 1.06) was less than for 1.5-(x = 1.56), 2.5- (x = 1.73), and ≥3.5- (x = 1.76) year-old age classes. Temporal and age specific effects among time periods on fetal number were significant in the analyses using data from all age classes.

Reproductive performance was monitored in a captive herd of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus virginianus) at the Dennis Wildlife Center in Bonneau, South Carolina, from 1980-84. Sixty-four known-age fetuses, including 25 sets of twins, were obtained from 39 does that were 1.5-3.5 years old when bred. Fetuses were obtained at weekly intervals from 5-27 weeks. Weights and a series of standard measurements were recorded from all fetuses. The relationship between each measured parameter and fetal age in days through gestation was linear (r2 = 0.84-0.99, P < 0.001). A key to fetal development was constructed using weights, measurements, and morphological characteristics.

Seasonal movements and total range areas were smaller (P < 0.01) for radio-collared female white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) live-captured along the Skyline Drive corridor of Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (roadside areas of mowed grass and abutting mixed oak-hardwood forest) than for radio-collared females captured in more remote backcountry areas of the Park (mixed oak-hardwood forest >1 km from Skyline Drive). Mean total range areas were 444 ha (SE = 181 ha, N = 3) for females captured on the Drive, and 879 ha (SE = 443 ha, N = 4) for females captured in the backcountry. Mean total range areas were smaller (P < 0.05) for radio-collared males captured in the backcountry areas, x = 1,586 ha (SE = 797 ha, N = 3) than for radio-collared males captured on Skyline Drive, x = 1,846 ha (SE = 49 ha, N = 2). However, there was no difference (P > 0.5) in their mean seasonal ranges.

Nine white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) outfitted with radio collars were observed for 9 months or longer to monitor seasonal movements and habitat utilization. Estimates of seasonal home-range size, using a multivariate method, varied from 176 ha to 1245 ha, and annual home range size varied from 455 ha to 2216 ha. Average annual home ranges of 4 females (737 ha ± 219 SD) was about half the average home range of 5 males (l511 ha ± 571 SD). Habitat utilization/availability analysis demonstrated significantly greater (P < 0.05) utilization of dense bottomland hardwood sawtimber than expected on an annual basis by 5 of the deer, and all deer used this habitat type in greater proportion than expected from its availability. Of 19 habitat types tested, only dense hardwood sawtimber showed a consistent use preference by deer.

Nine white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) outfitted with radio collars were observed for 9 months or longer to monitor seasonal movements and habitat utilization. Estimates of seasonal home-range size, using a multivariate method, varied from 176 ha to 1245 ha, and annual home range size varied from 455 ha to 2216 ha. Average annual home ranges of 4 females (737 ha ± 219 SD) was about half the average home range of 5 males (l511 ha ± 571 SD). Habitat utilization/availability analysis demonstrated significantly greater (P < 0.05) utilization of dense bottomland hardwood sawtimber than expected on an annual basis by 5 of the deer, and all deer used this habitat type in greater proportion than expected from its availability. Of 19 habitat types tested, only dense hardwood sawtimber showed a consistent use preference by deer.

Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) models for 5 bird species were tested with spatially-referenced habitat and frequency of use data using a computerized grid-cell mapping system (SYMAP) and the Statistical Analysis System (SAS). According to our spatial approach for testing, pine (Dendroica pinus) and prairie warbler (D. discolor) models performed well-better than those for eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis) or red-cockaded (Picoides borealis) and pileated woodpeckers (Dryocopus pileatus); however, the poor performance of the latter models was probably due more to the testing paradigm and/or to a low number of observed birds than to the models themselves. Models should be tested at scales commensurate with home ranges over an appropriate range of habitat suitability.

Relative abundance of small birds and mammals was determined on 18 0.4-ha plots in a mature, second-growth central Appalachian forest. Habitat heterogeneity had been increased by clearcutting and herbicide application on ridge-top, and south- and north-facing slopes 4 years prior to sampling. Areas with low basal area and high midstory cover provided the best habitat for white-footed mice (Peromyseus leueopus) and golden mice (Ochrotomys nuttalli). Areas with high basal area and low understory density provided the best habitat for ovenbirds (Seiurus aurocapillus) and red-eyed vireos (Vireo olivaceus). Areas with intermediate basal area and understory cover representative of stands following timber stand improvement (TSI) favored tufted titmice (Parus bicolor), hairy woodpeckers (Picoides villosus), and pine voles (Microtus pinetorum). Intermediate treatment and patch clearcutting should be restricted to upper slopes whenever possible to provide habitat for small mammals.

A pattern recognition (PATREC) habitat capability model for the ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus) was tested and refined on the Mark Twain National Forest (NF) in the Missouri Ozarks. Breeding bird surveys were conducted on 48 stands in 1983, 31 different stands in 1984, and 26 different stands in 1985. The literature-based PATREC model in use on the forest was used as an operational hypothesis to guide stand selection. Habitat data were obtained from the timber management and wildlife management information system data bases maintained by the Mark Twain NF. Stepwise (Wilks selection criterion) and direct multivariate discriminant analyses were used to determine which habitat variables best separated stands where ovenbirds were observed from those where no ovenbirds were observed. The best discriminant function for the 1983 data set included 5 habitat variables: forest type, stand condition, total basal area, percent overstory crown cover, and percent ground cover.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission's (NCWRC) free planting materials program was evaluated using interviews and field inspections. Cooperators were conscientious in planting and caring for the wildlife plots. Seventy percent of the plantings were fertilized. Seventy-four percent of the distributed units of annual seed mix resulted in successful plantings. Poorer success was noted with the perennial mix. Effectiveness of the planting materials in increasing carrying capacity was not determined. Cooperators felt that the plantings benefitted wildlife (96%) and hunting (85%). Concern had been expressed by NCWRC biologists that a preoccupation with food plots prevents landowners from recognizing other habitat problems. However, 46% of the respondents practiced other habitat management techniques.

A formal system was developed in Missouri for reviewing the design of wildlife research projects. The criteria used to develop the system are described, as are the 15 steps in the planning process. The system was developed to place more emphasis on the planning stages of wildlife research project preparation and to aid biologists in designing studies that will have a high probability of success.

State and federal nontoxic (steel) shot regulations have been challenged unsuccessfully in court on 8 separate occasions. Several characteristics are common to many of the cases. First, sportsmen have filed every lawsuit; “anti-hunters” or “protectionists” have not litigated the nontoxic shot-lead poisoning issue. Second, plaintiffs have argued unsuccessfully that the regulations were “arbitrary and capricious.” Third, the courts have unilaterally rejected allegations that nontoxic shot is ballistically inferior to lead shot, that it causes firearms damage, and that lead poisoning losses are insufficient to warrant nontoxic shot regulations. Opponents' failure to secure favorable court decisions may cause them to increasingly seek legislative rather than adjudicatory relief. Short-term “gains” achieved through this process will be offset entirely if the U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service exercises closure authority under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Seed collections were initiated to assess wildlife food availability and production by dotted smartweed (Polygonum punctatum) on a south central Florida marsh. The highest production consistently occurred in October despite wide fluctuation in total annual production. Seed remained available for use by wildlife in the soil throughout much of the year.

Digestive tracts were examined from 115 lesser scaup (Aythya affinis) killed by hunters in impoundments managed for crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) production at Indigo Island, Iberville Parish, Louisiana. Plant material (seeds) comprised 99.7% (by dry weight) of the food material during the 1981-82 wintering season and 99.6% during the 1982-83 season. Twenty-three scaup were collected while they were actively feeding; animal material was present in 21 scaup esophagi and plant material was present in 22. Nevertheless, plant material was the major food and comprised 99.0% of the diet. Seeds of Echinochloa colonum and Fimbristylis miliacea were the most important food items and were major species in bottom samples where scaup were collected. Dominant animal foods were snails, amphipod crustacea, and Diptera larvae. Small crayfish were abundant in the impoundments but no crayfish remains were found in scaup digestive tracts.

The 1982-85 South Carolina woodcock (Scolopax minor) wing survey yielded 683 wings with varying amounts of information on date and county of collection, type of hunting being done, and habitat where the bird was found. Age and sex information was obtained from the U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service on another 176 woodcock harvested in South Carolina as well as the total harvest in the eastern region for the 1982-85 period. The 1982-85 South Carolina harvests were composed of 19.7% adult males, 29.8% adult females, 23.5% immature males, and 27.0% immature females. Age and sex characteristics of the woodcock harvest in South Carolina were similar to those for the entire eastern region although significant differences were found between the Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions within the state. Apparently, about 24% of the South Carolina woodcock harvest occurs in the first 20 days of the season and about 37% occurs in the last 20 days.

Seasonal habitat preferences for 74 wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) hens and 38 gobblers were studied using radio telemetry over a 5-year period in northwest Alabama. Sixty-seven nests of radio-instrumented hens were found; 54 were in mixed herbaceous, low, brushy habitats and 13 were in open hardwood forest. Improved grazed pastures were the preferred brood-rearing habitat for the 23 hens whose broods survived to 14 days of age. Small plots with little growing vegetation were primarily preferred by 15 unsuccessful hens with broods surviving <14 days. Spring habitat preferences in 77 hen and 36 gobbler ranges included pastures, creekbottom hardwoods, and wildlife openings. Summer habitat preferences in 50 hen and 37 gobbler ranges were pastures, creekbottom hardwoods, and wildlife openings. Winter habitat preferences in 56 hen and 32 gobbler ranges were creekbottom hardwoods and wildlife openings.

On 2 sites in southeastern Louisiana, eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) food preference was compared among ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), winter wheat (Triticum aestivum), and subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum). Native forages comprised most of the winter diet. Fecal pellets contained more ryegrass than subterranean clover most months from December through May. Cottontails used little wheat, but this was probably due to poor production of this forage. Cottontail diet selection was not associated with total digestible nutrients, crude protein, phosphorus, calcium. We suspect that the greater use of ryegrass compared to clover was due to differences in cover provided by these forages.

Predicted hatching distributions of mourning doves (Zenaida macroura) derived from post-juvenal primary molt data obtained from (1) trapped samples throughout the year and (2) trapped samples from September-October only, were compared to hatching distributions observed in nesting studies during 1981 and 1982. A good fit of the predicted distribution to the observed was obtained in 1981, but not in 1982. It appears that sampling intensity and uniformity are major factors influencing how well primary feather molt data predicts hatching distributions. As a result, sampling of molt data during a restricted period such as September-October leads to a greater skew in the predicted hatching distribution as compared to sampling uniformly throughout the year.

Spotlight and helicopter techniques were used during late summer to survey white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in young pine plantations in the Ouachita Mountains of Oklahoma and Arkansas. Spotlight sampling rates were 72-183 ha/hour and 1.6-6.8 deer/hour, and helicopter sampling rates were 655-976 ha/hour and 26.4-43.2 deer/hour. Ninety-five percent of deer observed from the helicopter were classified to age-sex classes. During spotlight surveys, 60% of deer were classified when using binoculars and 82% were classified when using a spotting scope. The helicopter method yielded deer indices (ha/deer observed, fawn/doe, buck/doe) that were generally more precise than by spotlight. Estimated survey costs per hectare surveyed, per deer observed, and per deer classified, respectively, averaged $0.56, $13.09, and $19.07 by spotlight and $0.51, $10.91, and $11.51 by helicopter.

Radio-tagged northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) were monitored from November 1978 to April 1979 to determine their ranges, movements, and habitat use in pine (Pinus spp.) and mixed pine-hardwood habitats not managed for quail. Minimum ranges varied from 18.4 to 58.4 ha. Average daily straight-line distance movements were 272 m in winter and 185 m in spring. Ranges were greater, but movements were similar to those reported for forest habitats managed for quail. Fifty-three percent of telemetric fixes were within 50 m of an edge, with c1earcuts and bottomland transition zones preferred over road edges. Food-searching seemingly dictated the movements of the quail.

Data from a trapper survey in Louisiana for the 1980-81 season were used to estimate river otter (Lutra canadensis) harvest for each parish, and the data were compared in a step-wise regression procedure in 53 noncoastal parishes with independent variables thought to affect otter harvest. Of the factors tested, those most responsible for variation in the number of otters harvested were the amount of forested and nonforested wetlands, number of trapping licenses sold, and acreage of cotton in 1980. Otter occurrence was indexed in 6 parishes by otter latrine sites in transects along selected water bodies during summer 1981 and winter 1981-82. Latrine sites occurred along 18.9% and 20.3% of the survey lines during the summer and winter surveys, respectively. Most latrine sites were observed along streams with abundant fish activity and low human disturbance.

Conservation rangers in the Georgia Thomson Law Enforcement District made a total of 151 cases for illegal turkey hunting during the 5-year period beginning in 1980. The most prevalent violation was hunting over bait—47 (31.1%), followed by hunting without a big game license—l8 (11.9%), hunting without permission—13 (8.6%), hunting out of season-12 (8.0%), hunting without a license—11 (7.3%), hunting with unplugged gun—11 (7.3%), hunting from public road—10 (6.6%), hunting with illegal weapon (rifle)—10 (6.6%), hunting with illegal ammunition—7 (4.7%), hunting from a vehicle—7 (4.6%), and possession of illegal wildlife (turkey)—5 (3.3%). Penalties ranged from a $1,000 fine and 2 years of probation for possession of a hen turkey to nothing (case dismissed) for hunting without a big game license. Methods employed to detect and apprehend deliberate and incidental turkey poachers are discussed.

To address Missouri sportsmen's concerns regarding poaching and to generate ideas and methods to enable citizens of the state to work with and assist Missouri conservation agents in helping curb illegal activities involving wildlife, the Conservation Federation of Missouri created an ad hoc violations committee from which originated the Missouri Department of Conservation, Operation Game Thief program.

Survival is a key word to any law enforcement officer. Law enforcement officers deal with people from all walks of life, including some individuals who do not always conform to normal behavior. Survival Tactics—Reactive Shooting Situations (STRESS), or “red handle” training as it is commonly called, will better prepare the officers to meet situations where their lives may be in danger. Red-handle training teaches how to react to and survive a real shooting situation.

Data concerning violations by Kentucky raccoon hunters from June 1983 through December 1984 is presented. Of 5,692 raccoon hunters who were field-contacted by Kentucky conservation officers, 22% were cited for violation of some fish and wildlife regulation. One of every 6 raccoon hunters was cited for taking or attempting to take raccoons illegally. Highest monthly total violation rates occurred during October. Violation frequently was lowest during December. Most recent findings reveal lower raccoon hunter violations in eastern Kentucky than in the western or central regions. Review of violation rates by day of week show no apparent difference as the frequency of hunters contacted increased from Monday to Saturday.

Soil P, Ca, Mg, K, pH, and organic matter levels were compared to mean deer (Odocoileus virginianus) body weights and antler measures from 23 areas of Mississippi. All soil measures were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with deer body weights in all sex and age classes. Antler measurements for yearling, but not older, bucks correlated significantly with all soil measures except pH. In stepwise multiple regression analysis, P weighted most heavily in predicting deer body weights in all age and sex classes except female fawns; both P and K gave identical prediction equations for this age-sex class. This study suggests that soil P is a useful predictor of potential physiologic condition of deer. Management implications are that soil P levels in conjuncion with deer body weight information can be used as decision criteria to increase or decrease antlerless harvest levels or to implement habitat improvements.

On the Ouachita National Forest of Arkansas and Oklahoma, mean total forage yields in various age shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata) stands ranged from 1,914 kg/ha in young stands to 172 kg/ha beneath mature stands. Forage nutrient analysis in late summer revealed low phosphorus (0.12%), low crude protein (7.72%), high calcium (1.07%), and wide Ca:P ratio (9.5) averages. Average crude protein was significantly higher (8.22%) in stands with site index <61 than in stands with site index ≥61 (7.23%). Timber stand age and basal area related to deer (Odocoileus virginianus) forage yields will help managers assess present and future deer habitat capability levels.

Data were taken from 3,721 male white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) harvested from the Savannah River Plant in South Carolina for the years 1977 to 1982 to document the incidence of spike bucks relative to habitat differences, harvest methodology, body weight, condition, and genetic variability. Of the 1.5-year-old bucks harvested, 33.1% had spike antlers. The incidence of spike or non-spike antlers was significantly correlated with age (r =0.29) and body weight (r =0.37). Significant differences in the incidence of spike bucks were observed between swamp and upland habitat types. Bucks with higher levels of genetic variability showed greater antler growth in the older age classes. The significant relationship observed between genetic variability and incidence of spiking suggests that breeding structure of the herd could have an important influence on the incidence of spike bucks and environmental parameters may be secondarily involved.

Spike-antlered white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are common in Texas. Research has shown these animals to be inferior to their herd cohorts. Attempts to upgrade buck quality have focused attention on the removal of spikes from the herd to a point of annihilation. An evaluation of harvest data collected annually in Texas shows that spike bucks are essentially a product of deteriorated range conditions. Harvest regulations aimed at the systematic removal of spike-antlered bucks have been proposed as a solution for improving deer quality. Such regulations on a statewide scale have the potential of creating distorted buck-to-doe ratios and shortages in available bucks for future harvest.

Body weight and antler measurements collected from pen-reared white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) on the Kerr Wildlife Management Area, Hunt, Texas, indicated that yearling bucks with <6 antler points are genetically inferior for both antler development and body weight. Simple correlation coefficients for body weight and total antler points were 0.59, 0.51, and 0.48 at 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 years, respectively (P < 0.0001). The regression coefficients for body weight (kg) on number of antler points at 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 years of age for 60 deer were 2.47, 1.71, and 2.36 kg/point, respectively. Number of antler points at 2.5 and 3.5 years of age was dependent on number of antler points developed by the same deer at 1.5 and 2.5 years.

Radio-collars equipped with activity monitors were attached to 18 black bears (Ursus americanus) in Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee. Bears exhibited a crepuscular pattern of activity that varied seasonally. Activity levels were low after bears emerged from dens, escalated rapidly in June and July, reached a peak in August, and diminished gradually until denning. Activities of bears were affected by individual differences among bears, weather factors, and denning. Sex, age, and reproductive classes also affected activity patterns. Adult male bears were the most active group, whereas females with cubs were the least active, although seasonal variation in activity patterns among different age and reproductive classes was evident. The pattern of activity for bears suggested that breeding may occur in early August.

Female black bears (Ursus americanus) were captured and radio collared in Cherokee National Forest (CNF) and Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) from 1980 to 1982. Whereas most females den in inaccessible tree cavities high above ground, during the 1981-82 winter, 66% in the CNF and GSMNP denned on the ground affording scientists the opportunity to directly examine 15 litters. Litter sizes ranged from 1 to 4 (x =2.58), were comparable with litter sizes reported from other parts of the United States, and were similar among age classes of females. Estimated litter sizes based on recorded vocalizations were probably low; reliability may be enhanced by recording soon after cubs are born. Weights of cubs and yearlings averaged 1.82 kg and 8.8 kg, respectively. These weights are lighter than those reported from other studies and may reflect a less abundant and/or less reliable source of fall foods. Sex ratios and stages in development of cubs were observed and are reported.