The Plasticity Paradox

Elk in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem are famous for their epic seasonal migrations — but not all elk migrate. Some populations have shifted to year-round residency, trading the risks of migration for the relative safety of lower-elevation winter ranges near human development.

This behavioral plasticity seems adaptive in the short term, but what are the long-term consequences? Are resident elk trading evolutionary fitness for ecological convenience?

To quantify the demographic and genetic consequences of migration plasticity in Northern Rocky Mountain elk. By comparing migrant and resident populations across multiple metrics — survival, reproduction, body condition, disease prevalence, and genetic diversity — we aim to understand whether behavioral flexibility is a strength or a vulnerability in the face of rapid environmental change.

A multi-year demographic study comparing migrant and resident elk herds in Montana and Wyoming, with GPS collar data from over 200 individuals. Results published in the Journal of Animal Ecology, with management implications presented to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

A decision-support tool for state wildlife managers balancing elk population objectives with landowner tolerance and habitat connectivity.