Search Results (50)

Understanding how prey and predator species partition activity patterns across time and space is essential for elucidating behavioral adaptation and ecological coexistence. In this study, we examined the diel and seasonal activity rhythms of two sympatric rodent species—Rhombomys opimus (Great gerbil) and Meriones meridianus (Midday gerbil)—and their primary predators, Otocolobus manul (Pallas’s cat) and Vulpes vulpes (Red fox), in a desert-steppe ecosystem on the northern slopes of the Qilian Mountains, China. Using over 8000 camera trap days and kernel density estimation, we quantified their activity intensity and spatiotemporal overlap. The two rodent species showed clear temporal niche differentiation but differed in their synchrony with predators. R. opimus exhibited a unimodal diurnal rhythm with spring activity peaks, while M. meridianus showed stable nocturnal activity with a distinct autumn peak. Notably, O. manul adjusted its activity pattern to partially align with that of R. opimus, whereas V. vulpes maintained a crepuscular–nocturnal rhythm overlapping more closely with that of M. meridianus. Despite distinct temporal rhythms, both rodent species shared high spatial overlap with their predators (overlap index OI = 0.64–0.83). These findings suggest that temporal partitioning may reduce predation risk for R. opimus, while M. meridianus co-occurs more extensively with its predators. Our results highlight the ecological role of native carnivores in rodent population dynamics and support their potential use in biodiversity-friendly rodent management strategies under arid grassland conditions. Full article

Activity patterns constitute a critical adaptive trait in large carnivores, enabling them to manage interspecific competition, enhance their foraging efficiency, and adapt to fluctuating environmental conditions. At the community level, elucidating the temporal activity allocation of sympatric large carnivores is essential for understanding species coexistence mechanisms. However, the activity patterns of most large carnivores remain inadequately explored. In this study, spanning a survey period from June 2014 to April 2024, we employed infrared camera technology to collect a total of 3312, 352, 240, and 79 independently validated photographs of snow leopards (Panthera uncia Schreber, 1775), wolves (Canis lupus Linnaeus, 1758), brown bears (Ursus arctos Linnaeus, 1758), and Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx Linnaeus, 1758), respectively, across six distinct regions in the Sanjiangyuan Region (SR) and during different monitoring time periods. We utilized kernel density estimation and the coefficient of overlaps to assess diel activity pattern overlap and competitive intensities through pairwise comparisons among these four large carnivores. An analysis of the diel activity rhythm curves revealed that all four large carnivores predominantly exhibited nocturnal behavior, although their peak activity periods differed notably. Furthermore, the diel activity rhythm overlap between each pair of species showed moderate to high intensity throughout the year (0.5 ≤ Δ < 1), including during both the cold and warm seasons. Specifically, the diel activity rhythms of snow leopards and wolves, snow leopards and Eurasian lynx, and wolves and Eurasian lynx exhibited high levels of overlap annually and during the cold season (0.8 ≤ Δ < 1) but only moderate overlap during the warm season (0.5 ≤ Δ < 0.8). Our findings suggest that the diel activity rhythms of these four large carnivore species exhibited considerable overlap, potentially intensifying interspecific competition. This study advances our knowledge on the competitive and coexistence mechanisms of large carnivores in high-altitude mountainous ecosystems, offering critical data for their conservation and management. Full article

The analysis of activity patterns is a valuable tool for understanding the temporal organization of mammal communities, which is determined by biological requirements, resource availability, and competitive pressures both within and between species. Research on this ecological aspect can contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies. Cloud forest is an ecosystem of high biological relevance, as this provides habitat for a wide diversity of species in Mexico, including endemic, emblematic, and threatened taxa. Our main objectives were to analyze mammalian activity patterns and predator–prey relationships in the cloud forest of the El Cielo Biosphere Reserve, Tamaulipas, Mexico. From 2018 to 2020, twenty camera trap stations were installed, and independent photographic records were obtained, divided into 24 one-hour intervals, and subsequently classified as diurnal, nocturnal, crepuscular, or cathemeral. Temporal activity was estimated using circular statistics in RStudio v4.3.1, and activity overlap between major carnivores and their prey was assessed using the ‘overlap’ package in R. A total of 18 medium- and large-sized mammal species were recorded in this study. The activity of four species was seasonally influenced, with a predominantly nocturnal pattern observed during the dry season. The activity overlap analysis revealed potential temporal similarity between predators and their prey. For example, Panthera onca exhibited a high overlap with Mazama temama (Δ = 0.83), Puma concolor with Nasua narica (Δ = 0.91), and Ursus americanus with M. temama (Δ = 0.77). These findings suggest that the activity patterns of certain species can be influenced by seasonality and that large predators may favor specific prey whose activity overlaps with their own. Full article

Interspecific interactions among sympatric carnivores are critical for understanding patterns of coexistence, competition, and community structure. Among mesocarnivores, dominance hierarchies are typically shaped by differences in body size, social organization, and competitive ability. The golden jackal (Canis aureus) is generally assumed to dominate the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) across shared landscapes, particularly at high-value resources such as carcasses. However, here, we present rare behavioral evidence that challenges this prevailing assumption. Using motion-triggered camera traps deployed at a carcass in Lake Kerkini National Park, Greece, we recorded a sequence of interactions in which a golden jackal displayed clear submissive behavior toward a red fox, including lowered body posture, tail tucking, and conflict avoidance. Subsequent footage revealed two additional agonistic encounters, during which the same red fox successfully displaced two separate jackals, one of which emitted a distress vocalization while retreating. These findings represent the first documented case of interspecific submission by golden jackals toward a red fox and suggest that context-specific factors—such as immediate carcass possession, individual experience, or body condition—may modulate expected dominance outcomes. Our observations underscore the importance of fine-scale behavioral studies in revealing plasticity in interspecific relationships and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of carnivore competition under semi-natural conditions. Full article

The comparative analysis of the feeding ecology among sympatric small carnivores reveals both differentiation and overlap in resource utilization patterns, which serves as a critical pathway for understanding interspecific interactions and maintaining ecosystem stability. In this study, we collected fecal samples from sympatric Pallas’s cats (Otocolobus manul, n = 26) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes, n = 13) within the Sanjiangyuan National Park (SNP) in China. Subsequently, DNA barcoding technology was employed to analyze the dietary composition and interspecific differences of these two small carnivores. The results demonstrated that both species primarily prey on plateau pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) and small rodents. Despite a high trophic niche overlap between Pallas’s cats and red foxes (O_jk = 0.81), interspecific competition is mitigated through differentiate feeding proportions of shared prey species. Furthermore, the trophic niche breadth of red foxes (B = 267.89) exceeds that of Pallas’s cats (B = 162.94), reflecting a greater diversity of prey resources utilized by red foxes. Consequently, the two small carnivores achieve sympatric coexistence via differentiated resource utilization. These findings enhance our understanding of the coexistence mechanisms within carnivore communities and provide a scientific basis for the conservation of wildlife in the SNP. Full article

The current range of the jaguar (Panthera onca) spans sixty degrees of latitude across eighteen countries in the Western Hemisphere and covers approximately 7,000,000 km². Throughout this geographical breadth, jaguars represent an essential component of native biological diversity, but conflict revolving around real and perceived jaguar depredation on livestock is a factor in jaguar mortality. We developed a structured questionnaire to evaluate the effectiveness of anti-depredation strategies from northern Mexico to Argentina, collecting data from 11 countries and 248 livestock operations, 194 with efficacy metrics, and 24 with benefit–cost ratios (value of the livestock losses averted/cost of the intervention). Using coarse categories, 11 intervention types were tested. Techniques effectively reducing livestock losses were documented across the entire livestock operation size (2–130,000 ha, 5–30,000 head) and biome spectrum. While the techniques varied in complexity and required levels of investment, successful reductions in depredation were achieved at all levels. We conclude that anti-depredation strategies are highly effective, and when benefits are evaluated, they surpass costs, sometimes substantially. Given the proven efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the techniques described in this paper, we advocate for broader application across the species range to increase tolerance towards jaguars and a more effective human–jaguar coexistence. Full article

Despite the growing human–wildlife interactions (HWIs) globally, little attention has been paid to their effects on women and children, who often bear the brunt of loss of property and livelihoods. A systematic scoping review of four databases was undertaken to map and synthesize English-language evidence on the nature, causes, and impact of human–wildlife interactions on women and children across cultures. The 42 studies retained reveal that the proximity of human habitation to forest areas; expansion, deforestation, and encroachment of animal space; humans’ dependence on forest resources for livelihood; displacement of carnivores; and animals coming into the human space in search for food are the predominant causes of HWIs. Various types of HWIs and widely varying frequencies and durations of HWIs were reported. Individual and collective aspects of physical, psychological, economic, social, and environmental impacts on women and children were identified. The themes extracted were gendered roles, multi-factor vulnerabilities of women, religious beliefs, low participation of women in decision-making, social superstition against tiger widows, and perceptions of coexistence. Attention to perceptions of HWIs in different cultures and societies was limited, with notable gaps in the coverage of women and children and important geographic areas. These findings stress the need to bridge the geographical and cultural gap through multi-disciplinary actions on the determinants and effects of HWIs on women and children. Full article

Effective conservation of large mammals depends on how people perceive them. Grey wolves have a widespread distribution globally, and their recent recolonization of human-dominated landscapes offers an excellent opportunity to understand the heterogeneity in their perception across continents. Our analysis included all quantitative studies (118 articles) conducted in 35 countries through a systematic review process, published globally between 1980–2023 and indexed in Web of Science and Google Scholar. Fifty-four percent of the studies reported a negative perception toward wolves. Most studies conducted in Asia reported a negative perception, while 56% of studies conducted in Europe and 48% in North America reported a positive perception. Fifty-four percent of studies from Western Europe and forty percent of studies from Slavic Russian cultural regions reported positive perceptions. Respondents from low-income countries elicited the most negative perceptions. We identified the predominant religion and economic status of a country as dominant factors determining perception. Studies conducted in countries with Hinduism as the predominant religion reported a negative perception toward wolves. We recommend that future studies on human–wolf interactions must prioritize regions within central Europe, parts of Asia, and Russia. A global human–wolf coexistence strategy should consider the social factors driving attitude toward the species. Full article

In ecosystems where multiple carnivores coexist, interspecific interactions are crucial in shaping behavioral adaptations and resource utilization strategies. This study examines the competitive dynamics between Indian leopards (Panthera pardus fusca) and striped hyenas (Hyaena hyaena) in the Jhalana Reserve Forest, an urban-enclosed wildlife habitat in Jaipur, India. Using direct observations, citizen science contributions, and camera-trap data, we document kleptoparasitism and competitive exclusion instances where hyenas successfully outnumber leopards to gain access to food. Our findings indicate that hyenas exhibit an acute ability to locate leopard kills, often arriving within minutes of a leopard beginning to feed. Additionally, spatial constraints imposed by the reserve’s fencing create an ecological imbalance, as leopards can access external food sources while hyenas remain confined. We also discuss the potential consequences of supplementary feeding practices, which may influence predator behavior and interspecific interactions. This study highlights the importance of understanding competitive dynamics in fragmented landscapes to inform conservation strategies that promote coexistence. Full article

Human–wildlife conflict poses significant ecological and socio-economic challenges, particularly in rural communities where agriculture and livestock rearing form the backbone of livelihoods. Despite the growing importance of this issue, District Lakki Marwat remains an unexplored area of northwest Pakistan. This study aims to fill this gap by systematically assessing the status, economic impacts, and community perceptions of five wildlife species: wild boar (Sus scrofa), grey wolf (Canis lupus), golden jackal (Canis aureus), striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Using semi-structured surveys with 117 respondents, we analyzed species prevalence, perceived danger levels, crop damage patterns, and predation impacts on livestock and poultry. The findings revealed that wild boars were identified as the primary contributors to agricultural damage, with total annual crop losses surpassing the economic impacts attributed to the studied carnivores. On average, each surveyed household experienced an annual loss of PKR 4510.38. For the 39% of households reporting crop damage, the annual loss per reported household was PKR 11,727, which was higher than the average annual loss across all households, underscoring the severity of the impact on those specifically affected by the wild boar-related crop damage. Notably, community attitudes were most negative toward wild boars, a pattern driven by the economic burden of crop losses, challenging the conventional focus on carnivores as the primary conflict species. A Pearson’s $X^2$ test confirmed strong associations between species and perceived danger levels, while regression analysis demonstrated an association between crop damage and negative attitudes. Traditional deterrents like thorn fences were found ineffective against wild boars. More advanced methods, including game-proof fencing, trenches, bio-fencing, crop rotation, audio and visual deterrents, taste and order repellents, and watchtowers combined with group vigilance, are recommended to reduce crop damage. Integrating these approaches with community-based education, habitat management, and government-supported compensation schemes can mitigate wild boar impacts. This study contributes new insights into multi-species HWC dynamics, demonstrating that community perceptions are primarily shaped by the economic impact of a species, regardless of whether it is a carnivore or an omnivore. The attitudes of local communities are driven by the financial losses incurred, rather than the species' behavior or ecological role. This study underscores the need for collaborative efforts to reduce human–wildlife conflict, foster coexistence, and ensure ecological balance in vulnerable rural areas. Full article

Coexisting with large carnivores in human-dominated European landscapes is a highly relevant and current challenge. Over the last two centuries, the wolf (Canis lupus) population in Europe has experienced a significant decline, primarily due to direct human persecution. However, recent conservation policies, combined with the species’ remarkable ecological flexibility, have enabled a rapid recovery. This process, which now also extends to densely populated areas, is exemplified by the ongoing expansion across the Po Plain, one of Europe’s most heavily human-dominated landscapes. Our study aims to provide the first assessment of habitat suitability for wolf presence in the Po Plain. Using a ten-year dataset of wolf occurrences (2015–2024), we evaluated the influence of several environmental and human-related factors by applying habitat suitability models with the Maximum Entropy algorithm (MaxEnt). The goal was to quantify potentially suitable habitats within the plain and to identify the factors that could either facilitate or constrain wolf presence. The results showed that approximately half of the Po Plain is suitable for wolf presence. Among anthropogenic variables, “urban areas” was the only factor that significantly and negatively affected habitat suitability, while other variables had negligible impacts. This underscores the species’ remarkable ecological and behavioural adaptability. By investigating wolf distribution in one of Europe’s most anthropised regions, this study aims to shed light on the species’ ability to thrive in human-altered landscapes, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts and informing future strategies for coexistence in highly populated lowland ecosystems. Full article

Mitigating human–wolf conflict is crucial, yet conventional approaches often overlook the broader socioeconomic challenges faced by farming communities. Wolves frequently become scapegoats for deeper rooted issues such as economic disadvantages, policy deficiencies, and rural depopulation. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 118 livestock farmers to examine (a) farmer profiles and wolf-related interactions, (b) professional challenges and proposed solutions, (c) reasons for perceiving wolves as a major problem, and (d) the impact of wolf presence on job dissatisfaction. Farmers reported low specialized education and job satisfaction, particularly regarding income. Many struggled to afford or find shepherds, especially sheep/goat farmers. Guardian dog poisoning incidents and dissatisfaction with the damage compensation system were prevalent. Key challenges included economic marginalization, wolf presence, climatic factors, inadequate grazing policies, infrastructure deficits, distrust in policy, rural depopulation, and a lack of services. Farmers who perceived wolves as a major problem implemented weaker preventive measures and moved herds seasonally over longer distances. Job dissatisfaction was linked to wolf presence, livestock type, and economic marginalization. Our findings emphasize that while wolves impact farmers, economic and policy-related factors play a greater role. Educational initiatives, supportive policies, effective depredation mitigation, and fair compensation systems are essential for sustainable livestock farming and coexistence with wolves. By tackling socioeconomic challenges, enhancing policies, and supporting farmers to adapt to evolving circumstances, the livestock farming sector can thrive while minimizing conflicts associated with wolves. Full article

Habitat fragmentation poses a significant threat to the existence and reproduction of large carnivores, such as brown bears, as it affects the genetic connectivity of populations and, consequently, their long-term viability. Understanding the genetic makeup and dispersal patterns in areas where brown bears live is crucial for developing effective conservation plans and promoting human-brown bear coexistence. In this study, 214 hair samples were collected non-invasively from brown bears and were genetically analyzed using fifteen specific microsatellite loci to shed light on the genetic status and demography of a sub-population residing in Central Greece (Trikala-Meteora area). The broader Central and South Pindos regions have not been studied for over a decade; however, high levels of genetic diversity, a lack of heterozygosity deficiency, and no signs of inbreeding, along with an estimated effective population size (Ne = 99), confirm the good conservation status of this sub-population. Moreover, the existence of a natural and apparently functional corridor in Central Pindos was demonstrated by bear movements between the western and eastern parts of the project area, enhancing the sustainability of the population. These findings will contribute to future efforts to conserve natural corridors that enable functional connectivity among large areas of brown bear territories in Greece. Full article

Human activities have resulted in severe habitat degradation and fragmentation at a global scale. Despite this scenario, some carnivore species that adapted to the new conditions are expanding, leading to close coexistence with humans and the emergence of potential conflicts. In this work, we used a European wildcat (Felis silvestris) observations database of more than 350 sightings over 17 years in NW Spain to build suitability models based on environmental, topographic, climatic, and human impact variables. MaxEnt was used to analyse the availability of suitable habitats for the species at a regional scale. Our results showed that less than one third of the suitable area for the species had confirmed wildcat presence. Elevation, the percentage of forested area, and footpath density were the three main variables conditioning wildcat presence, with the first two variables having positive effects and footpath density negatively affecting wildcat presence. The selection of high areas and forest areas by the species seems to be related to food availability, while the avoidance of footpaths seems to be related to the fact that main mortality causes are linked to human disturbances. The results enhance the understanding of the European wildcat ecology and provide insight into potential management plans to ensure the conservation of one of the main populations of the species throughout its range. Full article

In Taiwan, the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis chinensis) remains the only extant native wild cat species. Previous studies have suggested anthropogenic factors as a cause of their decline, mainly due to conflicts with local farmers. Adaptation strategies that generate co-benefits are key to achieving human–wildlife coexistence. However, an understanding of the local views on such strategies is currently lacking. In this study, we performed the first regional assessment of 10 adaptation strategies for human–leopard cat coexistence and examined the impact of the socio-demographic factors affecting farmers’ willingness to participate in these strategies based on quantitative interviews with 418 farmers in Miaoli County, employing an importance–performance analysis. We also present an integrated conceptual framework capturing five adaptation strategy domains and their resulting benefits, which lay the structural foundation for facilitating resilient coexistence. Our findings suggest that (1) respondents’ perceived importance and performance of adaptation strategies were significantly different; (2) respondents most agreed with improvements in the incorporation of local knowledge/skills into science and policy and the establishment of adaptive co-management with local associations/non-governmental organisations; and (3) respondents aged below 49 years, supportive of coexistence, who did not own poultry, and preferred local farmer organisations to facilitate coexistence, were more likely to participate in the proposed adaptation strategies. Our findings provide guidelines for the future direction of the conservation and management of leopard cats that help achieve harmonious coexistence in shared landscapes. Full article