van Manen, F.T., Peck, C.P., Costello, C.M., Haroldson, M.A., Landenburger, L.A., Roberts, L.L., Bjornlie, D.D., and Mace, R.D., 2017, Potential movement paths for male grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) dispersal between the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems, 2000-2015: U.S. Geological Survey data release, https://doi.org/10.5066/F72V2F2W.
Potential movement paths for male-mediated gene flow between the GYE and the NCDE is an important information need identified by federal, state, and tribal managers. Advances in analytical techniques combined with extensive, long-term GPS data for grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) provided the opportunity to apply the randomized shortest path (RSP) method with individual-based movement data to predict male grizzly bear paths between functional areas. Our study provides detailed, spatially-explicit information for land managers and organizations working with land owners to identify and prioritize conservation measures that enhance the integrity of areas supporting potential movement of male grizzly bears. These measures could, for example, include conservation easements and land purchases; mitigation of highway and other infrastructure barriers across key movement paths; and proactive education and attractant management programs to prevent or reduce bear-human conflict.
