Evaluating the Differences in Intensity of White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) Populations in Managed and Unmanaged Parks
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Abstract
By Noah Bruce, Environmental Studies; Jacob Lawrence , Environmental Studies ; Brittany Powers-Luhn, Biological Sciences; Jordan Gerda, Environmental Studies; Rhalena Seballos, Biological Sciences; Hannah Lynam, Biological Sciences; Lillian Braun, Environmental Studies; Evan Bold, Environmental Studies; Stephen F. Matter, University of Cincinnati
Advisor: Stephen Matter
Presentation ID: 323
Abstract: Overpopulation of the herbivorous white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is an ever-present issue facing urban environments across North America. From environmental issues, such as overgrazing and dispersal of invasive plants seeds, to more human-centered issues, such as car accidents caused by collisions with deer, there is a need for urban deer management. Partnering with Cincinnati Parks, our research group placed camera traps inside of different urban parks surrounding Cincinnati, Ohio, some of which have dedicated deer hunting seasons or sterilization programs, and some that are not actively managed, to measure the effectiveness of management and management type on the population levels of white-tailed deer across the city. We hypothesize that managed parks will have a lower intensity of use by deer than unmanaged. We hypothesize that sterilization will be as effective as hunting. Management may have measurable effects on the plant community (see companion poster investigating spring ephemerals).