Unit 19D East Moose Distribution and Movement  and Calf Mortality Study  Interim Summary of Field Data

as of

July  13, 2001

March 24-28, 2001

• Captured and radiocollared 25 adult and 15 yearling female moose
• 18 of 25 moose were pregnant, based on blood samples
• 12 of 18 pregnant moose predicted to have twins
• Average weight of yearlings 402 lbs.

April , 2001

• 5 moose die, 2 adults, 3 yearlings
• 2 by wolf predation (1 adult, 1 ylg)
• 3 by other sources including 2 by probable capture related complications

May-June, 2001

• 2 adults die
• 1 killed by grizzly bear, near Takotna
• 1 killed by trappers snare accidentally left out after season
• 68 calves collared
• 40 male, 27 female, 1 unk
• 40 singles, 12 set of twins and 4 single of twin litters
• Radiotracked calves daily until  June 28
• Radiocollared 10 additional adults in eastern study area

July , 2001

• Calf mortality up to July 5, 2001
• 40 calves known dead
• 17 attributed to grizzly bears
• 16 attributed to black bears
• 6   attributed to wolves
• 1 accidental death, (drowned)
• Only 2 sets of twins remain intact
• 26 active calf collar remaining

Mortality breakdown by area and species, up to July 5, 2001

Area East of Big River (Pitka Flats)

79%(15/19) of calves are dead

• 12/15 attributed to grizzly bears
• 3/15 attributed to wolves

Area West of Big River ( March Study Area)

53% (25/47) of calves are dead

• 16/25 attributed to black bear
• 5/25 attributed to grizzly bears
• 3/25 attributed to wolves
• 1/25 accidental death