The Effect of Helicopter Overflights on the Foraging Behavior of Desert Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) at Grand Canyon National Park

Stockwell CA and Bateman GC. 1987. The Effect of Helicopter Overflights on the Foraging Behavior of Desert Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) at Grand Canyon National Park

The foraging efficiencies of desert bighorn sheep at Grand Canyon National Park were recorded in the presence and absence of helicopter overflights. Bighorn foraged less efficiently and took more steps when helicopters were present, particularly in winter. The seasonal difference in sensitivity, however, may reflect the spring migration of bighorn to lower elevations where helicopters cannot come in as close.

Type
Published Report
Authors
Stockwell, Craig; Bateman, Gary
Date of Issue
1987-05
Units
GRCA
Keywords
Aircraft, Desert Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni), Feeding, Human Impact, Mammals, NPSRecord

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