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Evaluation of distribution and trans-highway movement of desert bighorn sheep : Arizona Highway 68, final report 588.
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2008-08-01
[PDF-2.05 MB]
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Alternative Title:Evaluation of distribution and trans-highway movement of desert bighorn sheep : Arizona Highway 68.
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Edition:Final report
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Abstract:The authors monitored desert bighorn sheep via satellite telemetry, remote cameras, and track beds between 2006 and 2007 to evaluate the effectiveness of the three design features (underpasses) incorporated to facilitate wildlife movement under State Highway 68 (SR 68) between Kingman and Bullhead City, Arizona. The authors fitted 25 desert bighorn sheep with GPS radio telemetry collars and tracked movements in proximity to SR 68 for 15 months, beginning in November of 2006. To evaluate use of underpasses by all ungulates, the authors installed five remote passive infrared triggered cameras at each underpass. The authors monitored wildlife use at the underpasses for 9,789 camera/days and documented 25 crossing events by desert bighorn sheep (less than or equal to 32 individual crossings). None of the bighorns documented using the underpasses were ewes and no marked ewes crossed SR 68. The majority (88%) of crossings by bighorns occurred at the easternmost underpass (milepost 12.1), which also had the narrowest span and was located in the most rugged terrain. There were three crossings by bighorns at the westernmost underpass (milepost 7.8), which had the widest span and was located far from rugged terrain. No bighorns crossed at the remaining underpass (milepost 10.8), however other ungulates, such as wild burros (86%) and mule deer (14%), were seen more often there. At higher levels, presence of other ungulates and humans may preclude bighorn use of underpasses. While proximity to steep terrain, sight ability, underpass structure, and presence of other animals may all be important factors affecting bighorn use of highway underpasses, placement of crossing structures relative to traditional travel corridors of bighorns is likely the most important factor affecting their use.
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