On February 28, 2002 the first cases of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) were reported for three deer near Mount Horeb in south-central Wisconsin. Upon the discovery of CWD, the University of Wisconsin - Madison and the Department of Natural Resources collaborated to determine CWD research needs. A deer ecology study was identified as a top priority to study the free-ranging deer population in the infected and surrounding areas and to examine behavior that may contribute to the spread of CWD.
This project seeks to determine the movement behavior of white-tailed deer in south-central Wisconsin. Started in September of 2002, the project's researchers are collecting data that will aid in the identification of home ranges and dispersal movements of deer. Dispersal, migration and site fidelity influence the rate at which CWD propagates across the landscape. These behaviors will also be influenced by patterns of land ownership, forest fragmentation, deer density and harvest intensity. Starting in 2004, researchers will begin to assess the role that hunter effort plays in determining patterns of deer distribution.
In order to observe deer behavior, VHF radio-collars are placed on the deer. These collars allow researchers to track the movement of deer across the landscape and fulfill project objectives. Deer are caught from December through April using various methods (See Deer Capture). Deer are located 3-10 times each week at various times of day and night and throughout the year. Most collars have colored tape on the top and sides to help identify individuals when seen together.