Author(s): Myshela Todd
Mentor(s): Zhenyu Jin
Institution UTech
Habitat selection is a fundamental aspect of animal ecology and conservation, playing a critical role in the persistence, abundance, and distribution of species (Bleich et al., 2017). The process is shaped by a complex interplay of biotic and abiotic factors, such as water availability, climate, vegetation, and human development (Michel et al., 2019). For bighorn sheep (*Ovis canadensis*), these factors have been studied extensively in the western and southwestern U.S., where permanent water sources, elevation, dominant vegetation, and human activity have been shown to influence habitat preferences. However, the specific drivers of bighorn sheep distribution in Utah remain underexplored. In this study, I developed habitat preference maps for bighorn sheep in Utah, incorporating factors such as permanent water sources, elevation, vegetation type, and human development. Through frequency and buffer analyses, I found that bighorn sheep in Utah are primarily located near permanent water sources, at elevations between 800 and 2100 meters, and in habitats characterized by conifers, aspens, herbs, and shrubs. Notably, unlike studies conducted in other regions, I did not observe a strong association between bighorn sheep and coal mines. These findings offer valuable insights for the conservation and management of bighorn sheep in Utah. By understanding the specific habitat preferences of this species, wildlife managers can create targeted strategies to protect and enhance suitable habitats, ensuring the long-term persistence of bighorn sheep populations in the state.