Data and R computer code from: Summer elk calf survival in a partially migratory population

These data and computer code (written in R, https://www.r-project.org) were created to statistically evaluate a suite of intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors related to calf elk and their mothers' body condition and age. Specifically, known-fate data were collected from 94 elk calves monitored from 2013-2016 in a partially migratory elk (Cervus canadensis) population in Alberta, Canada. Along with adult female data on pregnancy status, age, and body condition, we created a time-to-event dataset that allowed us to analyze calf mortality risk in a time-to-event approach. We also estimated pooled survivorship and cause-specific mortality, as well as stratifying these metrics by migration tactic (resident vs. eastern migrant). Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate calf mortality risk in terms of forage biomass (kg/ha), bear predation risk (from an RSF), and other factors that varied between migration tactics. We tested for differences in a number of maternal reproductive parameters (e.g., pregnancy status) and for calf explanatory variables between migrant and resident elk segments. We also use cumulative incidence functions to estimate cause-specific mortality in this multiple carnivore system. Ultimately, we hope that this work helps wildlife managers anticipate how elk calf survival and partial migration dynamics are affected by grizzly bear predation, and our study builds on a long-term partial migration study at the Ya Ha Tinda Ranch in Alberta, Canada.