Predation and survival of white-tailed deer fawns in northcentral New Brunswick

Identification of mortality sources of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virgin ianus), particularly predation and survival rates, is important for effecti ve management. We captured, radiocollared, and monitored 78 white-tailed de er fawns in northcentral New Brunswick to determine survival and cause-spec ific mortality from February 1994 through May 1997. Of 50 fawns captured as neonates, 22 died by 30 November 1994-96. Predation by coyotes (Canis latr ans; n = 9), black bears (Ursus americanus; n = 5), domestic dogs (Canis fa miliaris; n = 3), and bobcats (Felis rufus; n = 2) was the largest cause of fawn mortality during summer and autumn. Coyotes were the primary cause of mortality of fawns greater than or equal to 7 months old (11 of 15). Fawn survival was lowest during summer (0.47), increased during autumn (0.86) an d early winter (0.95), and then declined during late winter (0.76) and spri ng (0.81). Our results support the hypothesis that coyotes have replaced gr ay wolves (Canis lupus) in northeastern North America, with survival and mo rtality rates being comparable between New Brunswick and other areas where wolves and coyotes are sympatric.