Assessing independence of animal locations with association matrices

We developed and used association matrix, association pattern, and pattern recognition software (ASSOC1) to investigate the spatio-temporal associatio n of individual radio-collared elk with other radio-collared elk in a study area in western Montana. These procedures were used to approximate the amo unt of time each individual spent with another individual, and assess the l evel of independence at which these elk acted. The results of this study wi ll allow wildlife biologists to better understand animal movements and herd dynamics, and evaluate the independence of animal locations for home range calculation and habitat use-availability analysis.