The distribution of wildlife throughout the year is relevant to private lands management, providing hunter access to wildlife, and ensuring the sustainability of wildlife populations. In collaboration with staff at the Boone and Crockett Club’s Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch, the Boone and Crockett Club University Program at the University of Montana has initiated a project to better understand the conservation implications of sustainable ranch management on big game communities on the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in Montana.

By using motion-triggered trail cameras, and a rigorous study design, we will assess big game distribution as it relates to land ownership and management strategies, habitat features, and the presence of other wildlife species. A unique component of the research is the integration and consideration of sustainable ranch management techniques and how ranching relates to big game distributions. Ultimately, the research goals are to better understand how wildlife distribution changes throughout the year and to help inform management and policy related to the important role ranch management plays in wildlife sustainability.

Trail cameras are being used to answer these research questions because they are non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, and effective at monitoring far-ranging and elusive species. Trail camera photos are also a great education tool.  Thus, another component of the study will be the development of teaching modules for K-12 and university students related to ranch management and wildlife sustainability. 
 

Enjoy a few shots of the variety of wildlife that called the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch home this summer.

Click here to view Boone and Crockett Club's live web cam at the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch.

 

New Trail Camera Virtual Curriculum

When do mule deer bucks typically shed their antlers? When are elk calves usually born? How can you tell the difference between a grizzly bear and a black bear? For kids growing up in Montana, these questions might not be very difficult to answer. But to many children, particularly those living in urban areas, these natural science questions might be harder than an algebra test. Check out our new Trail Cam Lesson Plans.... the first one is FREE!