As data is collected from the collar transmissions, students plot the data using GIS (Geographic Information Systems) software.  Students then make observations based on their map regarding animal behavior such as habitat preference, home range, dispersal patterns, seasonal and diurnal patterns.

This page is for GIS map displays and observations from students and research biologists.

The following GIS maps were made using DOQ's (Digital OrthoQuads or aerial photos).

Sample student hypothesis for the data collected:
Will the deer travel differently in February as in March? I think the deer will travel less in February because it is colder and they will want to stay closer together to keep warm.

Observation after plotting the data:

It looks like the deer stay pretty close together in both February and March, but in March the deer seem to go closer to the river. I think this is because the river is thawed out in March and the deer can get a drink from the river but they couldn't in February, so they really didn't go to the river in February.