A four-year study conducted by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks of eight pronghorn populations across the state helped identify numerous migration obstacles. Female pronghorns across the state were captured and fitted with GPS collars to monitor the animals’ movements. In addition to identifying blockages to their treks, the study also showed that pronghorn does are very loyal to their summer ranges. They faithfully returned to these spots, whereas winter ranges would vary depending on the conditions. Despite the wealth of data collected, the study couldn’t identify a specific cause of the animals’ decline across the state. Drought, disease, harsh winters and habitat loss can all combine to reduce herds, but even when these didn’t occur pronghorn populations were slow to rebound. As a result, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has steadily decreased its issuance of hunting tags. To learn more about the study and Montana’s pronghorn population, check out my story at https://billingsgazette.com/outdoors/fish-wildlife-parks-pronghorn-study/article_b883e80c-4f75-11ef-80d5-e383288a686f.html.