Comparison of Seven Forest Types for Game in West Virginia

Abstract

Forest type was used as a basis for classifying observations of turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo), gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) on an 8,100-ha study area. For three years, sightings of game were recorded in each April and November, deer-pellet groups were counted in each April, and leaf nests were counted in each November; then, data for the three years were pooled. The sightings of turkeys, deer, and grouse differed between spring and fall. However, we pooled the spring and fall counts to illustrate use of such data in habitat management. Among seven forest types, all game counts differed from counts that would be expected if locations of game or sign were independent of forest type. Counts for each game species in each forest type were converted to ratios, and comparisons were made directly between all pairs of forest types for any species, and all species/type combinations. Use of the ratios is demonstrated in a hypothetical management analysis. Such comparisons can help define management alternatives and resolve trade-offs among them. J. WILDL. MANAGE. 39(4):762-768 This paper reports on the relative use of seven forest types by turkeys, gray squirrels, white-tailed deer, and ruffed grouse. We show how measures of game occurrence can be converted to ratings and used to compare forest types for different wildlife species. The methods used may provide guidance for preparing economic analyses or for resolving multiple-use conflicts. Timber management commonly provides the most practical means for managing habitat of forest wildlife. Shaw (1970:272) asserted that over 90 percent of the vegeta- tive manipulations needed for forest wild- life can be achieved through well-planned timber programs.