Seasonal fine‐scale resource selection of elk in the central Appalachian Mountains

Resource selection by animals varies depending on spatial and temporal context, thus it is important to account for these factors when conducting studies that examine this behavior relative to the availability and distribution of resources. Many resource selection studies combine fine‐scale animal location data obtained using global positioning system (GPS) technology and coarse‐scale, remotely sensed, spatial layers. Fewer studies combine fine‐scale animal location data with vegetation data collected in the field, which can identify important fine‐scale drivers of resource selection. Understanding fine‐scale resource selection of ungulates inhabiting regions dominated by closed‐canopy forests may provide important information regarding management actions that improve habitat quality. From April 2021 to August 2022, we conducted vegetation surveys at locations (n = 1294) used by 39 GPS‐collared elk Cervus canadensis and at paired random locations (n = 2509) available to elk. We used conditional logistic regressions to compare seasonal (spring, summer, fall, winter) vegetation characteristics between used and available locations. We also conducted a species indicator analysis to compare plant species found at used and available locations during peak foraging periods (dawn/dusk). Regardless of season, the probability of use by elk increased as tree basal area (m 2 /ha) decreased, and the presence of herbaceous plants increased. Clovers ( Trifolium spp.) were indicators of locations used by elk during primary foraging periods regardless of season. Other plants that were indicators of locations used by elk during at least one season included purple‐crown vetch Securigera varia , bird's foot trefoil Lotus corniculatus , and black medick Medicago lupulina . This research highlights the importance of managed openings, ecotones, and other communities characterized by reduced tree cover and increased herbaceous plants to meet the foraging needs of elk in landscapes dominated by closed‐canopy forests. Creating and maintaining managed herbaceous openings and restoring open‐forest communities will likely facilitate elk population growth and expansion.