Tracking White-Tailed Deer: New Research Unveils Insights into Deer Movement and Genetics Amid Climate Shifts

A study between Trent University and Parks Canada is tracking white-tailed deer in Ontario, in hopes of further understanding how their movement patterns and genetic traits have shifted and been affected in the face of climate change. 

Featured in the latest episode of the Climate Crew series by Parks Canada, Dr. Aaron Shafer, chair of Forensic Science and associate professor in the Environmental & Life Sciences Program at Trent University, uses movement and genomic analyses to understand how animals are evolving in their natural environments as they shift due to climate change. This study is part of a larger research project, which also includes collaboration with scientists from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, who are also adjunct faculty at Trent.

By tagging deer with radio collars, the researchers are collecting data on deer home range information and movement patterns within the province. While they attach the radio collars, the researchers also collect DNA samples and genetic material, and measure physical traits on each deer.  

“Obtaining accurate movement data helps us determine more precisely where wildlife mortality is taking place, and ultimately, helps to develop infrastructure that mitigates mortality, such as wildlife overpasses,” says Prof. Shafer. “Measuring body size and taking tissues and hair samples helps determine age, health, and genetic traits of the deer, providing vital information on new diseases that could impact the population of deer within the province.” 

The GPS collar devices on the deer send location updates as often as every two hours, ensuring the movement data is as accurate and targeted as possible, and provides a comprehensive look into precise home ranges. The collars are programmed to fall off the deer naturally in about two years and can be tracked for retrieval so that they can be reused. 

With valuable genetic and movement data, conservation, wildlife and nature agencies, like Parks Canada, can make more informed wildlife management and conservation decisions for white-tailed deer, along with other species, as climate change concerns continue to mount. 

“Parks Canada is pleased to be working in collaboration with Prof. Shafer and Trent University in conducting this important research in Thousand Islands National Park. The research contributes to our understanding of the white-tailed deer population, movement and genetic diversity in the area, of climate change impacts, and informs priorities and guides conservation action that supports ecological connectivity and wildlife corridors," said Sheldon Lambert, resource conservation manager, Thousand Islands National Park. 

The documentary and collaboration between Trent University and Parks Canada showcases Trent’s ongoing commitment to valuable, relevant graduate student research opportunities while contributing to larger environmental protection efforts. 

To watch the episode, visit Parks Canada’s Climate Crew YouTube Series. 

Posted on October 29, 2024