WWRC 92-23
Habitat Selection of Cattle Along an Ephemeral Channel
Abstract
Because of widespread concern about cattle irazint effects on
riparian zones of public lands, seasonal habitat selection by cattle
was studied along a cold desert area ephemeral waterway of north-central
Wyoming. Little is known of grazing effects on ephemeral
streams compared to perennial streams. Cattle activity was monitored
in small pastures and a surrounding large allotment in spring, '
summer, and fall. Observations included activity and habitat
where it occurred. Concomitantly, utilization levels, protein content,
and dry matter content of forages were determined in the
small pastures.
A higher percent of cattle selected channel and floodplain habitats
than percent area of habitats while a lower percent of cattle
selected upland habitat than percent of this habitat in the area.
Utilization levels of forages except greasewood (Sarcobatia vermiculatus
(Hook.) Torrey) in the floodplain were not greatly different
among habitats. Protein and dry matter content of forages
did not vary greatly among habitats, except greasewood had higher
protein and lower dry matter than other species and received much
higher use. Forage quality declined In summer and fall. Animal
preference for channel habitat was attributed to more available
forage in the channels. In contrast, selection of floodplains was due
to succulence and high protein content of greasewood. Comparison
of cattle selectivity between small pastures and the large allotment
indicates that greater avoidance of upland areas by cattle is
likely due to greater distances to drinking water in the large
allotment.
Key Words: seasonal, biomass, utilization, protein, succulence
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