Black bear (Ursus americanus), grizzly bear, (U. arctos), and domestic sheep interactions and competition were investigated using radiotelemetry on the Targhee National Forest in Idaho and Wyoming during 1976 and 1977. (Black and grizzly bear intra- and interspecific relationships are discussed in terms of habitat utilization.) Radio-monitored movements of 7 black bears and 1 grizzly were compared with movements of sheep herds on selected forest sheep allotments to investigate bear behavior near sheep herds and determine the extent of interspecific conflicts. Competition between bears and sheep occurred when they utilized the same plants (primarily grasses and forbs) that were limited by either abundance or seasonal availability. Additional conflict, resulting in losses of sheep to bear predation, occurred during concurrent habitat use by bears and sheep.
- Author(s) Carole J. Jorgensen
- Volume 5
- Issue
- Pages 191-200
- Publication Date 1 January 1983
- DOI 10.2307/3872538
- File Size 346.55 KB
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