A New Zealand herd of red deer; observations on the general biology and behaviour of the red deer in Cupola Basin, Nelson Lakes National Park

Abstract

Research was carried out in Cupola Basin, an alpine catchment in the Nelson Lakes National Park, on a small red deer (Cervus elaphus) population. A marking programme using self-attaching collars was undertaken to determine long term movements and to assist identification, Snare lines were set throughout the area and six animals were subsequently observed wearing collars. Characteristics of the population observed over the study are examined against a background of previous research. Changes in the population structure between the two years of the study are thought to be related to a change in the habitat. The general biology and behaviour of red deer is described with special emphasis being placed on the matriarchal family groupings. Observations made during this study are compared with those in the literature. The inherent variability of the grassland environment is examined as a basis for the analysis of factors influencing grazing behaviour in red deer. Observations were directed towards obtaining daily activity patterns and an index of feeding intensity. The method developed involved a series of observations repeated at half-hourly intervals throughout the day. Movement patterns reflected feeding activity with the overall distribution of deer in the observation area being related to environmental conditions. Daily and seasonal patterns are examined and an attempt is made to relate variability in these patterns to fluctuations in the physical environment, seasonal changes in the vegetation, and physiological changes within the animal.