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Alting BF, Pitcher BJ, Rees MW, Ferrer‐Paris JR, Jordan NR. Population density and ranging behaviour of a generalist carnivore varies with human population. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11404. [PMID: 38779530 PMCID: PMC11109528 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Canid species are highly adaptable, including to urban and peri-urban areas, where they can come into close contact with people. Understanding the mechanisms of wild canid population persistence in these areas is key to managing any negative impacts. The resource dispersion hypothesis predicts that animal density increases and home range size decreases as resource concentration increases, and may help to explain how canids are distributed in environments with an urban-natural gradient. In Australia, dingoes have adapted to human presence, sometimes living in close proximity to towns. Using a targeted camera trap survey and spatial capture-recapture models, we estimated spatial variation in the population density and detection rates of dingoes on Worimi Country in the Great Lakes region of the NSW coast. We tested whether dingo home range and population densities varied across a gradient of human population density, in a mixed-use landscape including, urban, peri-urban, and National Park environs. We found human population density to be a strong driver of dingo density (ranging from 0.025 to 0.433 dingoes/km2 across the natural-urban gradient), and to have a negative effect on dingo home range size. The spatial scale parameter changed depending on survey period, being smaller in the peak tourism period, when human population increases in the area, than in adjacent survey periods, potentially indicating reduced home range size when additional resources are available. Our study highlights the potential value of managing anthropogenic resource availability to manage carnivore densities and potential risk of human-carnivore interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan F. Alting
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of New South Wales (UNSW)SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Benjamin J. Pitcher
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation SocietyDubbo and SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Natural SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Matthew W. Rees
- Health and Biosecurity DepartmentCommonwealth Science and Industrial Research OrganisationBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - José R. Ferrer‐Paris
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of New South Wales (UNSW)SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Neil R. Jordan
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of New South Wales (UNSW)SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Taronga Conservation SocietyDubbo and SydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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Newsome T, Cairncross R, Cunningham CX, Spencer EE, Barton PS, Ripple WJ, Wirsing AJ. Scavenging with invasive species. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:562-581. [PMID: 38148253 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Carrion acts as a hotspot of animal activity within many ecosystems globally, attracting scavengers that rely on this food source. However, many scavengers are invasive species whose impacts on scavenging food webs and ecosystem processes linked to decomposition are poorly understood. Here, we use Australia as a case study to review the extent of scavenging by invasive species that have colonised the continent since European settlement, identify the factors that influence their use of carcasses, and highlight the lesser-known ecological effects of invasive scavengers. From 44 published studies we identified six invasive species from 48 vertebrates and four main groups of arthropods (beetles, flies, ants and wasps) that scavenge. Invasive red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), domestic dogs (Canis familiaris), feral pigs (Sus scrofa), black rats (Rattus rattus) and feral cats (Felis catus) were ranked as highly common vertebrate scavengers. Invasive European wasps (Vespula germanica) are also common scavengers where they occur. We found that the diversity of native vertebrate scavengers is lower when the proportion of invasive scavengers is higher. We highlight that the presence of large (apex) native vertebrate scavengers can decrease rates of scavenging by invasive species, but that invasive scavengers can monopolise carcass resources, outcompete native scavengers, predate other species around carcass resources and even facilitate invasion meltdowns that affect other species and ecological processes including altered decomposition rates and nutrient cycling. Such effects are likely to be widespread where invasive scavengers occur and suggest a need to determine whether excessive or readily available carcass loads are facilitating or exacerbating the impacts of invasive species on ecosystems globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Rhys Cairncross
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Calum X Cunningham
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, College of the Environment, Box 352100, Seattle, WA, 98195-2100, USA
| | - Emma E Spencer
- School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Philip S Barton
- School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - William J Ripple
- Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Aaron J Wirsing
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, College of the Environment, Box 352100, Seattle, WA, 98195-2100, USA
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Behrendorff L, King R, Allen BL. Trouble in paradise: When two species of conservation and cultural value clash, causing a management conundrum. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e10726. [PMID: 38020708 PMCID: PMC10653987 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Threatened species throughout the world are in decline due to various causes. In some cases, predators of conservation or cultural value are causing the decline of threatened prey, presenting a conservation conundrum for managers. We surveyed marine turtle nests on K'gari (formally known as Fraser Island), Australia, to investigate dingo predation of green and loggerhead turtle nests, where each of these species is of conservation value. Our monitoring revealed that 84% of nests were predated by dingoes. Only 16% of nests were not consumed by dingoes, and only 5.7% of nests were confirmed to have successfully hatched. Up to 94% of nests were consumed in some areas, and predation rates were similar across different dingo packs. Information on the available numbers of nests and dingoes in the area indicated that turtle nests alone are sufficient to support extant dingoes over the summer. These results indicate that marine turtle eggs represent a previously unquantified but important food source for dingoes on K'gari, and that turtle nests at this rookery site are under serious threat from dingoes. This research should highlight the importance of prioritising the protection of turtle nests from dingoes or risk losing the entire rookery forever in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Behrendorff
- School of Agriculture and Food SciencesUniversity of QueenslandGattonQueenslandAustralia
- Queensland Government Department of Environment and ScienceQueensland Parks and Wildlife ServiceK'gariQueenslandAustralia
| | - Rachel King
- School of Mathematics, Physics and ComputingUniversity of Southern QueenslandToowoombaQueenslandAustralia
| | - Benjamin L. Allen
- Institute for Life Sciences and the EnvironmentUniversity of Southern QueenslandToowoombaQueenslandAustralia
- Centre for African Conservation EcologyNelson Mandela UniversityPort ElizabethSouth Africa
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McLean D, Goldingay R, Letnic M. Diet of the Dingo in Subtropical Australian Forests: Are Small, Threatened Macropods at Risk? Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2257. [PMID: 37508035 PMCID: PMC10376500 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Carnivores fulfil important ecological roles in natural systems yet can also jeopardise the persistence of threatened species. Understanding their diet is, therefore, essential for managing populations of carnivores, as well as those of their prey. This study was designed to better understand the diet of an Australian apex predator, the dingo, and determine whether it poses a threat to at-risk small macropods in two floristically different yet geographically close reserves in subtropical Australia. Based on an analysis of 512 scats, dingo diets comprised 34 different prey taxa, of which 50% were common between reserves. Our findings add support to the paradigm that dingoes are opportunistic and generalist predators that prey primarily on abundant mammalian fauna. Their diets in the Border Ranges were dominated by possum species (frequency of occurrence (FOC) = 92.5%), while their diets in Richmond Range were characterised by a high prevalence of pademelon species (FOC = 46.9%). Medium-sized mammals were the most important dietary items in both reserves and across all seasons. The dietary frequency of medium-sized mammals was generally related to their availability (indexed by camera trapping); however, the avoidance of some species with high availability indicates that prey accessibility may also be important in dictating their dietary choices. Other prey categories were supplementary to diets and varied in importance according to seasonal changes in their availability. The diets included two threatened macropods, the red-legged pademelon and black-striped wallaby. Our availability estimates, together with earlier dietary studies spanning 30 years, suggest that the red-legged pademelon is resilient to the observed predation. The black-striped wallaby occurred in only two dingo scats collected from Richmond Range and was not detected by cameras so the threat to this species could not be determined. Two locally abundant but highly threatened species (the koala and long-nosed potoroo) were not detected in the dingoes' diets, suggesting dingoes do not at present pose a threat to these populations. Our study highlights the importance of site-based assessments, population monitoring and including data on prey availability in dietary investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusty McLean
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia
| | - Ross Goldingay
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Freund DR, Gable TD, Johnson-Bice SM, Homkes AT, Windels SK, Bump JK. The ethology of wolves foraging on freshwater fish in a boreal ecosystem. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:230210. [PMID: 37234502 PMCID: PMC10206451 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.230210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Through global positioning system (GPS) collar locations, remote cameras, field observations and the first wild wolf to be GPS-collared with a camera collar, we describe when, where and how wolves fish in a freshwater ecosystem. From 2017 to 2021, we recorded more than 10 wolves (Canis lupus) hunting fish during the spring spawning season in northern Minnesota, USA. Wolves ambushed fish in creeks at night when spawning fish were abundant, available and vulnerable in shallow waters. We observed wolves specifically targeting sections of rivers below beaver (Castor canadensis) dams, suggesting that beavers may indirectly facilitate wolf fishing behaviour. Wolves also cached fish on shorelines. We documented these findings across five different social groups at four distinct waterways, suggesting that wolf fishing behaviour may be widespread in similar ecosystems but has probably remained difficult to study given its annual brevity. Spawning fish may serve as a valuable pulsed resource for packs because the spring spawning season coincides with low primary prey (deer Odocoileus virginianus) availability and abundance, and when packs have higher energetic demands owing to newly born pups. We demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of wolf hunting and foraging behaviour, and provide insight into how wolves can survive in a myriad of ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle R. Freund
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, 2003 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Thomas D. Gable
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, 2003 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Sean M. Johnson-Bice
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Manitoba, 50 Sifton Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
| | - Austin T. Homkes
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, 2003 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Steve K. Windels
- Voyageurs National Park, National Park Service, 360 Highway 11 East, International Falls, 56649 MN, USA
| | - Joseph K. Bump
- Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota, 2003 Upper Buford Circle, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
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Boronyak L, Jacobs B. Pathways to coexistence with dingoes across Australian farming landscapes. FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2023.1126140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionAgriculture and biodiversity conservation are both vitally important human activities that overlap geographically and are often in conflict. Animal agriculture has been implicated in species loss and the degradation of ecosystems due to land clearing, overgrazing, and conflicts with large carnivores such as dingoes (Canis dingo). This paper explores the potential for transformation in Australian commercial livestock production from human-dingo conflict towards social-ecological coexistence.MethodA qualitative model that depicts transformative change was developed from field observations and twenty-one in-depth interviews with livestock producers, conservation researchers, grazing industry representatives and policy makers across Australia. The model articulates the current state of dingo management and the drivers of system change.ResultsSeven pathways are described to catalyse transformation from routine lethal management of dingoes towards a future vision that embeds mutually beneficial coexistence. Central to transformation is the adoption by livestock producers of preventive non-lethal innovations supported by a new farming movement, Predator Smart Farming, that balances livestock grazing and wildlife conservation values to unlock the resilience of landscapes, animals (domesticated and wild) and livelihoods. Other key pathways include targeted research, capacity building, outreach and knowledge sharing networks; institutional (policy, legislation, and economic incentives) and cultural change; public awareness raising and advocacy to reduce lethal control; and greater involvement of Indigenous Australians in decisions relating to wildlife management.DiscussionThe seven transition pathways are discussed in relation to how they can collectively foster coexistence with dingoes in extensive rangelands grazing systems. International examples of interventions are used to illustrate the types of successful actions associated with each pathway that could inform action in Australia. The findings have implications for coexistence with large carnivores in rangeland ecosystems globally.
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Dawson SJ, Kreplins TL, Kennedy MS, Renwick J, Cowan MA, Fleming PA. Land use and dingo baiting are correlated with the density of kangaroos in rangeland systems. Integr Zool 2023; 18:299-315. [PMID: 36065141 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rangelands worldwide have been subject to broadscale modification, such as widespread predator control, introduction of permanent livestock water and altered vegetation to improve grazing. In Australia, these landscape changes have resulted in kangaroos (i.e. large macropods) populations increasing over the past 200 years. Kangaroos are a key contributor to total grazing pressure and in conjunction with livestock and feral herbivores have been linked to land degradation. We used 22 years of aerial survey data to investigate whether the density of 3 macropod species in the southern rangelands of Western Australia was associated with: (i) land use, including type of livestock, total livestock, density of feral goats, type of land tenure, and kangaroo commercial harvest effort; (ii) predator management, including permitted dingo control effort, estimated dingo abundance, and presence of the State Barrier Fence (a dingo exclusion fence); and (iii) environmental variables: ruggedness, rainfall, fractional cover, and total standing dry matter. Red kangaroos (Osphranter rufus) were most abundant in flat, open vegetation, on pastoral land, where area permitted for dingo control was high, and numbers were positively associated with antecedent rainfall with a 12-month delay. Western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus) were most abundant on flat, agricultural land, but less abundant in areas with high permitted dingo control. Euros (Osphranter robustus) were most abundant in rugged pastoral land with open vegetation, where permitted dingo control was high. While environmental variables are key drivers of landscape productivity and kangaroo populations, anthropogenic factors such as land use and permitted dingo control are strongly associated with kangaroo abundance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J Dawson
- Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia.,Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (present address), South Perth, Australia
| | - Tracey L Kreplins
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Northam, Australia
| | | | - Juanita Renwick
- Queensland Department of Environment and Science, Moggill, Australia
| | - Mark A Cowan
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, Australia
| | - Patricia A Fleming
- Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia
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Bonin M, Dussault C, Taillon J, Pisapio J, Lecomte N, Côté SD. Diet flexibility of wolves and black bears in the range of migratory caribou. J Mammal 2023. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyad002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The diet of predators can be highly variable, which is exemplified by their ability to acclimate to a wide range of ecological conditions. Such flexibility in foraging may be a key aspect of their performance in unpredictable environments such as at the edge of the range of a species or where food availability varies greatly in time and space. Gaining information on the diets of predators under such conditions could foster our comprehension of their ecological flexibility and the potential role of predation on the population dynamics of prey. We determined the diet of wolves (Canis lupus) and black bears (Ursus americanus) in northern Québec and Labrador (Canada) within the range of two migratory caribou (Rangifer tarandus) herds: the high-abundance Rivière-aux-Feuilles herd (RFH) and low-abundance Rivière-George herd (RGH). Worldwide, decline in caribou populations has become a concern, stressing the need to better understand the factors involved in these declines, including predation. In northern Québec (RFH range), caribou was the primary year-round prey of wolves while moose (Alces alces) and muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) were consumed in some sectors. The diet of wolves in northern Labrador (RGH range) varied seasonally, with caribou, moose, and fish as main prey during different periods throughout the year. Black bear diets varied seasonally and regionally. Among the foods we analyzed, caribou was the main source of animal protein for bears in northern Québec and northern Labrador, except during a high abundance of Ungava collared lemming (Dicrostonyx hudsonius). Only bears in northern Québec ate caribou during late summer/fall. Our results highlight the diet flexibility of wolves and black bears in northern food webs, and how their diets change in relation to the distribution and abundance of prey. Our results will help quantify the potential impact of these predators on prey populations in northern systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaël Bonin
- Caribou Ungava, département de biologie, Université Laval , 1045 avenue de la Médecine, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
- Centre d’études nordiques, Université Laval , 2405 rue de la Terrasse, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
| | - Christian Dussault
- Caribou Ungava, département de biologie, Université Laval , 1045 avenue de la Médecine, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
- Direction de l’expertise sur la faune terrestre, l’herpétofaune et l’avifaune, Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs du Québec, 880 chemin Sainte-Foy , Québec City, Québec G1S 4X4 , Canada
| | - Joëlle Taillon
- Caribou Ungava, département de biologie, Université Laval , 1045 avenue de la Médecine, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
- Direction de l’expertise sur la faune terrestre, l’herpétofaune et l’avifaune, Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs du Québec, 880 chemin Sainte-Foy , Québec City, Québec G1S 4X4 , Canada
| | - John Pisapio
- Caribou Ungava, département de biologie, Université Laval , 1045 avenue de la Médecine, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
- Wildlife Division, Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Fisheries, Forests and Agriculture , Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador A0P 1E0 , Canada
| | - Nicolas Lecomte
- Caribou Ungava, département de biologie, Université Laval , 1045 avenue de la Médecine, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
- Centre d’études nordiques, Université Laval , 2405 rue de la Terrasse, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
- Chaire de recherche du Canada en écologie polaire et boréale et Centre d’études nordiques, département de biologie, Université de Moncton , 18 avenue Antonine-Maillet, Moncton, New Brunswick E1A 3E9 , Canada
| | - Steeve D Côté
- Caribou Ungava, département de biologie, Université Laval , 1045 avenue de la Médecine, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
- Centre d’études nordiques, Université Laval , 2405 rue de la Terrasse, Québec City, Québec G1V 0A6 , Canada
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Fleming PA, Stobo-Wilson AM, Crawford HM, Dawson SJ, Dickman CR, Doherty TS, Fleming PJS, Newsome TM, Palmer R, Thompson JA, Woinarski JCZ. Distinctive diets of eutherian predators in Australia. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:220792. [PMID: 36312571 PMCID: PMC9554524 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction of the domestic cat and red fox has devastated Australian native fauna. We synthesized Australian diet analyses to identify traits of prey species in cat, fox and dingo diets, which prey were more frequent or distinctive to the diet of each predator, and quantified dietary overlap. Nearly half (45%) of all Australian terrestrial mammal, bird and reptile species occurred in the diets of one or more predators. Cat and dingo diets overlapped least (0.64 ± 0.27, n = 24 location/time points) and cat diet changed little over 55 years of study. Cats were more likely to have eaten birds, reptiles and small mammals than foxes or dingoes. Dingo diet remained constant over 53 years and constituted the largest mammal, bird and reptile prey species, including more macropods/potoroids, wombats, monotremes and bandicoots/bilbies than cats or foxes. Fox diet had greater overlap with both cats (0.79 ± 0.20, n = 37) and dingoes (0.73 ± 0.21, n = 42), fewer distinctive items (plant material, possums/gliders) and significant spatial and temporal heterogeneity over 69 years, suggesting the opportunity for prey switching (especially of mammal prey) to mitigate competition. Our study reinforced concerns about mesopredator impacts upon scarce/threatened species and the need to control foxes and cats for fauna conservation. However, extensive dietary overlap and opportunism, as well as low incidence of mesopredators in dingo diets, precluded resolution of the debate about possible dingo suppression of foxes and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A. Fleming
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Alyson M. Stobo-Wilson
- NESP Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory 0909, Australia
- CSIRO Land and Water, PMB 44, Winnellie, Northern Territory 0822, Australia
| | - Heather M. Crawford
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | - Stuart J. Dawson
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, 3 Baron-Hay Court, South Perth, Western Australia 6151, Australia
| | - Chris R. Dickman
- Desert Ecology Research Group, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Heydon-Laurence Building A08, Camperdown, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Tim S. Doherty
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Heydon-Laurence Building A08, Camperdown, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Peter J. S. Fleming
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange Agricultural Institute, 1447 Forest Road, Orange, New South Wales 2800, Australia
- Ecosystem Management, School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales 2351, Australia
- Institute for Agriculture and the Environment, Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland 4350, Australia.
| | - Thomas M. Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Heydon-Laurence Building A08, Camperdown, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Russell Palmer
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Locked Bag 104, Bentley Delivery Centre, Western Australia 6983, Australia
| | - Jim A. Thompson
- Queensland Museum Network, PO Box 3300, South Brisbane BC, Queensland 4101, Australia
| | - John C. Z. Woinarski
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory 0909, Australia
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Karandikar H, Serota MW, Sherman WC, Green JR, Verta G, Kremen C, Middleton AD. Dietary patterns of a versatile large carnivore, the puma ( Puma concolor). Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e9002. [PMID: 35784054 PMCID: PMC9240727 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Large carnivores play critical roles in terrestrial ecosystems but have suffered dramatic range contractions over the past two centuries. Developing an accurate understanding of large carnivore diets is an important first step towards an improved understanding of their ecological roles and addressing the conservation challenges faced by these species.The puma is one of seven large felid species in the world and the only one native to the non-tropical regions of the New World. We conducted a meta-analysis of puma diets across the species' range in the Americas and assessed the impact of varying environmental conditions, niche roles, and human activity on puma diets. Pumas displayed remarkable dietary flexibility, consuming at least 232 different prey species, including one Critically Endangered and five Endangered species.Our meta-analysis found clear patterns in puma diets with changing habitat and environmental conditions. Pumas consumed more larger-bodied prey species with increasing distance from the equator, but consumption of medium-sized species showed the opposite trend.Puma diets varied with their realized niche; however, contrary to our expectations, puma consumption of large species did not change with their trophic position, and pumas consumed more small prey and birds as apex predators. Consumption of domestic species was negatively correlated with consumption of medium-sized wild species, a finding which underscores the importance of maintaining intact native prey assemblages.The tremendous dietary flexibility displayed by pumas represents both an opportunity and a challenge for understanding the puma's role in ecosystems and for the species' management and conservation. Future studies should explore the linkages between availability and selection of primary and other wild prey, and consequent impacts on predation of domestic species, in order to guide conservation actions and reduce conflict between pumas and people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshad Karandikar
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management Mulford Hall University of California Berkeley California USA
| | - Mitchell W Serota
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management Mulford Hall University of California Berkeley California USA
| | - Wilson C Sherman
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management Mulford Hall University of California Berkeley California USA
| | - Jennifer R Green
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management Mulford Hall University of California Berkeley California USA
| | - Guadalupe Verta
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management Mulford Hall University of California Berkeley California USA
| | - Claire Kremen
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management Mulford Hall University of California Berkeley California USA.,Institute for Resources, Environment and Sustainability University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada.,Department of Zoology Biodiversity Research Centre University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Arthur D Middleton
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management Mulford Hall University of California Berkeley California USA
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11
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Thompson ER, Driscoll DA, Venn SE, Geary WL, Ritchie EG. Interspecific variation in the diet of a native apex predator and invasive mesopredator in an alpine ecosystem. AUSTRAL ECOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.13214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eilysh R. Thompson
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology Deakin University Burwood Victoria 3125 Australia
| | - Don A. Driscoll
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology Deakin University Burwood Victoria 3125 Australia
| | - Susanna E. Venn
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology Deakin University Burwood Victoria 3125 Australia
| | - William L. Geary
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology Deakin University Burwood Victoria 3125 Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology Deakin University Burwood Victoria 3125 Australia
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12
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Bradley HS, Craig MD, Tomlinson S, Cross AT, Bamford MJ, Bateman PW. Predators in a mining landscape: Threats to a behaviourally unique, endangered lizard. AUSTRAL ECOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.13195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Holly S. Bradley
- ARC Centre for Mine Site Restoration, School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Kent Street, Bentley Perth West Australia 6102 Australia
| | - Michael D. Craig
- School of Biological Sciences University of Western Australia Crawley West Australia Australia
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences Murdoch University Murdoch West Australia Australia
| | - Sean Tomlinson
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Perth West Australia Australia
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Kings Park Science Perth West Australia Australia
- School of Biological Sciences University of Adelaide Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Adam T. Cross
- ARC Centre for Mine Site Restoration, School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Kent Street, Bentley Perth West Australia 6102 Australia
- EcoHealth Network: https://ecohealthglobal.org Brookline Massachusetts USA
| | | | - Philip W. Bateman
- Behavioural Ecology Laboratory, School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University Perth West Australia Australia
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13
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Castañeda I, Doherty TS, Fleming PA, Stobo‐Wilson AM, Woinarski JCZ, Newsome TM. Variation in red fox
Vulpes vulpes
diet in five continents. Mamm Rev 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Castañeda
- Ecology and Genetics of Conservation and Restoration, UMR INRA 1202 BIOGECO Université de Bordeaux 33615 Pessac France
| | - Tim S. Doherty
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Patricia A. Fleming
- Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University Perth WA 6150 Australia
| | - Alyson M. Stobo‐Wilson
- NESP Threatened Species Recovery Hub Charles Darwin University Casuarina NT 0909 Australia
| | - John C. Z. Woinarski
- NESP Threatened Species Recovery Hub Charles Darwin University Casuarina NT 0909 Australia
| | - Thomas M. Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
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14
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Bragato PJ, Spencer EE, Dickman CR, Crowther MS, Tulloch A, Newsome TM. Effects of habitat, season and flood on corvid scavenging dynamics in Central Australia. AUSTRAL ECOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.13177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J. Bragato
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Emma E. Spencer
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Chris R. Dickman
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Mathew S. Crowther
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Ayesha Tulloch
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
| | - Thomas M. Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales 2006 Australia
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15
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Field MA, Yadav S, Dudchenko O, Esvaran M, Rosen BD, Skvortsova K, Edwards RJ, Keilwagen J, Cochran BJ, Manandhar B, Bustamante S, Rasmussen JA, Melvin RG, Chernoff B, Omer A, Colaric Z, Chan EKF, Minoche AE, Smith TPL, Gilbert MTP, Bogdanovic O, Zammit RA, Thomas T, Aiden EL, Ballard JWO. The Australian dingo is an early offshoot of modern breed dogs. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm5944. [PMID: 35452284 PMCID: PMC9032958 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm5944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Dogs are uniquely associated with human dispersal and bring transformational insight into the domestication process. Dingoes represent an intriguing case within canine evolution being geographically isolated for thousands of years. Here, we present a high-quality de novo assembly of a pure dingo (CanFam_DDS). We identified large chromosomal differences relative to the current dog reference (CanFam3.1) and confirmed no expanded pancreatic amylase gene as found in breed dogs. Phylogenetic analyses using variant pairwise matrices show that the dingo is distinct from five breed dogs with 100% bootstrap support when using Greenland wolf as the outgroup. Functionally, we observe differences in methylation patterns between the dingo and German shepherd dog genomes and differences in serum biochemistry and microbiome makeup. Our results suggest that distinct demographic and environmental conditions have shaped the dingo genome. In contrast, artificial human selection has likely shaped the genomes of domestic breed dogs after divergence from the dingo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt A. Field
- Centre for Tropical Bioinformatics and Molecular Biology, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sonu Yadav
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, High St, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Olga Dudchenko
- The Center for Genome Architecture, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Meera Esvaran
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Benjamin D. Rosen
- Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Ksenia Skvortsova
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Richard J. Edwards
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, High St, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jens Keilwagen
- Julius Kühn-Institut, Erwin-Baur-Str. 27, 06484 Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Blake J. Cochran
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Bikash Manandhar
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Sonia Bustamante
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jacob Agerbo Rasmussen
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
- Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The GLOBE Institute University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Richard G. Melvin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, 1035 University Drive, Duluth, MN 55812, USA
| | - Barry Chernoff
- College of the Environment, Departments of Biology, and Earth and Environmental Sciences, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, USA
| | - Arina Omer
- The Center for Genome Architecture, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zane Colaric
- The Center for Genome Architecture, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Eva K. F. Chan
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Statewide Genomics, New South Wales Health Pathology, 45 Watt St, Newcastle, NSW 2300, Australia
| | - Andre E. Minoche
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Timothy P. L. Smith
- U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Rd 313, Clay Center, NE 68933, USA
| | - M. Thomas P. Gilbert
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
- University Museum, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ozren Bogdanovic
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney, High St, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Robert A. Zammit
- Vineyard Veterinary Hospital, 703 Windsor Rd, Vineyard, NSW 2765, Australia
| | - Torsten Thomas
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Erez L. Aiden
- The Center for Genome Architecture, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Pudong 201210, China
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - J. William O. Ballard
- Department of Environment and Genetics, SABE, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
- School of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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16
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Cruz LR, Pires MM. Body mass ratios determine dietary patterns and help predicting predator–prey interactions of Neotropical Carnivora. MAMMAL RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-022-00631-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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17
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Morphological and Functional Divergence of the Lower Jaw Between Native and Invasive Red Foxes. J MAMM EVOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10914-021-09593-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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18
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Duncan TA, Fleming PA, Dawson SJ. Diet of dingoes in the West Kimberley, and the impact of linear clearing. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/am21016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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19
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Augusteyn J, McCarthy MA, Robley A, Pople A, Nolan B, Hemson G, Melzer R, Richards S, Dinwoodie A. Bringing back the endangered bridled nail-tailed wallaby at Taunton National Park (Scientific) through effective predator control. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/wr21067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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20
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Hisano M, Evans MJ, Soga M, Tsunoda H. Red foxes in Japan show adaptability in prey resource according to geography and season: A meta‐analysis. Ecol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1440-1703.12287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masumi Hisano
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Maldwyn J. Evans
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
- Fenner School of Environment and Society The Australian National University Canberra Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - Masashi Soga
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences The University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
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21
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McHugh D, Goldingay RL. Utilising power analyses and occupancy modelling to inform population monitoring of the regionally endangered black‐striped wallaby (
Macropus dorsalis
) in New South Wales. AUSTRAL ECOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.13132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Darren McHugh
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Tweed Byron Area, 135 Murwillumbah Street Murwillumbah New South Wales 2484 Australia
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering Southern Cross University East Lismore New South Wales Australia
| | - Ross L. Goldingay
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering Southern Cross University East Lismore New South Wales Australia
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22
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Cruz LR, Muylaert RL, Galetti M, Pires MM. The geography of diet variation in Neotropical Carnivora. Mamm Rev 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lívia R. Cruz
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Ecologia Instituto de Biologia Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) Campinas São Paulo Brazil
- Laboratório de Estrutura e Dinâmica da Diversidade (LEDDiv) Departamento de Biologia Animal Instituto de Biologia Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) Campinas São Paulo13083‐970Brazil
| | - Renata L. Muylaert
- Molecular Epidemiology and Public Health Laboratory Hopkirk Research InstituteMassey University Palmerston North Manawatu‐Wanganui New Zealand
| | - Mauro Galetti
- Department of Biology University of Miami Coral Gables FL33146USA
- Departamento de Biodiversidade Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP) Rio Claro São Paulo13506‐900Brazil
| | - Mathias M. Pires
- Laboratório de Estrutura e Dinâmica da Diversidade (LEDDiv) Departamento de Biologia Animal Instituto de Biologia Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP) Campinas São Paulo13083‐970Brazil
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23
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Fleming PA, Crawford HM, Stobo‐Wilson AM, Dawson SJ, Dickman CR, Dundas SJ, Gentle MN, Newsome TM, O’Connor J, Palmer R, Riley J, Ritchie EG, Speed J, Saunders G, Stuart JD, Thompson E, Turpin JM, Woinarski JC. Diet of the introduced red fox
Vulpes vulpes
in Australia: analysis of temporal and spatial patterns. Mamm Rev 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A. Fleming
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University 90 South Street Murdoch, Perth WA6150Australia
| | - Heather M. Crawford
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University 90 South Street Murdoch, Perth WA6150Australia
| | - Alyson M. Stobo‐Wilson
- NESP Threatened Species Recovery Hub Charles Darwin University Casuarina NT0909Australia
| | - Stuart J. Dawson
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University 90 South Street Murdoch, Perth WA6150Australia
| | - Christopher R. Dickman
- NESP Threatened Species Recovery Hub, Desert Ecology Research Group School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW2006Australia
| | - Shannon J. Dundas
- NSW Department of Primary Industries 1447 Forest Rd Orange NSW2800Australia
| | - Matthew N. Gentle
- Pest Animal Research Centre Invasive Plants and Animals Biosecurity Queensland Toowoomba Qld4350Australia
| | - Thomas M. Newsome
- Global Ecology Lab School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW2006Australia
| | - Julie O’Connor
- Sunshine Coast Regional Council 1 Omrah Avenue Caloundra Qld4551Australia
| | - Russell Palmer
- Science and Conservation Division Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Bentley WA6983Australia
| | - Joanna Riley
- School of Biological Sciences University of Bristol BristolBS8 1THUK
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Burwood Vic3125Australia
| | - James Speed
- Pest Animal Research Centre Invasive Plants and Animals Biosecurity Queensland Toowoomba Qld4350Australia
| | - Glen Saunders
- NSW Department of Primary Industries 1447 Forest Rd Orange NSW2800Australia
| | - John‐Michael D. Stuart
- Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability, Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University 90 South Street Murdoch, Perth WA6150Australia
| | - Eilysh Thompson
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Burwood Vic3125Australia
| | - Jeff M. Turpin
- School of Environmental and Rural Science University of New England Armidale NSW2351Australia
| | - John C.Z. Woinarski
- NESP Threatened Species Recovery Hub Charles Darwin University Casuarina NT0909Australia
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Metabolomics shows the Australian dingo has a unique plasma profile. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5245. [PMID: 33664285 PMCID: PMC7933249 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84411-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Dingoes occupy a wide range of the Australian mainland and play a crucial role as an apex predator with a generalist omnivorous feeding behaviour. Dingoes are ecologically, phenotypically and behaviourally distinct from modern breed dogs and have not undergone artificial selection since their arrival in Australia. In contrast, humans have selected breed dogs for novel and desirable traits. First, we examine whether the distinct evolutionary histories of dingoes and domestic dogs has lead to differences in plasma metabolomes. We study metabolite composition differences between dingoes (n = 15) and two domestic dog breeds (Basenji n = 9 and German Shepherd Dog (GSD) n = 10). Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, type II and type III ANOVA with post-hoc tests and adjustments for multiple comparisons were used for data evaluation. After accounting for within group variation, 62 significant metabolite differences were detected between dingoes and domestic dogs, with the majority of differences in protein (n = 14) and lipid metabolites (n = 12), mostly lower in dingoes. Most differences were observed between dingoes and domestic dogs and fewest between the domestic dog breeds. Next, we collect a second set of data to investigate variation between pure dingoes (n = 10) and dingo-dog hybrids (n = 10) as hybridisation is common in regional Australia. We detected no significant metabolite differences between dingoes and dingo-dog hybrids after Bonferroni correction. However, power analysis showed that increasing the sample size to 15 could result in differences in uridine 5′-diphosphogalactose (UDPgal) levels related to galactose metabolism. We suggest this may be linked to an increase in Amylase 2B copy number in hybrids. Our study illustrates that the dingo metabolome is significantly different from domestic dog breeds and hybridisation is likely to influence carbohydrate metabolism.
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Moro D, Morris K, van Leeuwen S, Davie H. A framework of integrated research for managing introduced predators in the Pilbara bioregion, Western Australia. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/am20025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The effective control of wild dogs, feral cats and foxes is of primary interest to land managers, both for biodiversity conservation and for the protection of livestock. Control programs primarily target single species within the context of biodiversity conservation or livestock practices, but their effectiveness in depressing predator densities is unclear because monitoring is limited or not conducted. Here, we review and discuss the outcomes of a workshop to identify research priorities for managing predation on native fauna by introduced predators in the Pilbara bioregion in Western Australia. We suggest that the control of introduced predators will be most effective if it is implemented at a landscape-scale comprising integrated predator management that considers interspecific (predator) interactions combined with standardised monitoring to measure the effectiveness and benefits of control. Four research themes were identified: (1) collation and collection of baseline data, (2) effective monitoring of introduced predators, (3) understanding functional (ecological) roles of introduced predators within the different ecosystem contexts, and (4) identifying novel complementary approaches to protect threatened species. These themes collectively include research areas that invest in foundational, ecological and alternative biological parameters in research to close knowledge gaps related to the functional roles of introduced predators in the landscape. Addressing these research themes will assist land managers to achieve outcomes that address the needs of both biodiversity conservation and pastoral production. This framework is timely given the ongoing investment in offset funding being mobilised in the region.
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Augusteyn J, Rich M, Story G, Nolan B. Canids potentially threaten bilbies at Astrebla Downs National Park. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/am20034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The ecological role of canids in arid Australia is unresolved. Some argue they play a role regulating populations of herbivores and introduced mesopredators such as feral cats (Felis catus) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes). However, evidence also suggests they pose a threat to native species populations. The aims of this study were to determine the extent of canid predation on the bilby population at Astrebla Downs National Park, Queensland, to improve our understanding of the ecological role that canids serve in the park and to determine whether seasonal changes in the canid diet can be used to predict if and when management should intervene. Canid scats (n=723) were collected over seven years and their content examined. The percentage of bilby remains in the canid scats varied from 13 to 85% (mean=43%) and was 20–100% by volume. In total, 23 vertebrate species were identified in canid scats. The percentage of cat remains was 0–44% (mean=11%), peaking in 2013 during a cat plague and coinciding with canids actively hunting cats. Fox remains were not detected in dog scats. These results indicate that canids had a varied diet and at times threatened the bilby population at Astrebla.
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McHugh D, Goldingay RL, Parkyn J, Goodwin A, Letnic M. Short‐term response of threatened small macropods and their predators to prescribed burns in subtropical Australia. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/emr.12407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Wysong ML, Hradsky BA, Iacona GD, Valentine LE, Morris K, Ritchie EG. Space use and habitat selection of an invasive mesopredator and sympatric, native apex predator. MOVEMENT ECOLOGY 2020; 8:18. [PMID: 32391154 PMCID: PMC7197163 DOI: 10.1186/s40462-020-00203-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Where mesopredators co-exist with dominant apex predators, an understanding of the factors that influence their habitat and space use can provide insights that help guide wildlife conservation and pest management actions. A predator's habitat use is defined by its home range, which is influenced by its selection or avoidance of habitat features and intra- and inter-specific interactions within the landscape. These are driven by both innate and learned behaviour, operating at different spatial scales. We examined the seasonal home ranges and habitat selection of actively-managed populations of a native apex predator (dingo Canis dingo) and invasive mesopredator (feral cat Felis catus) in semi-arid Western Australia to better understanding their sympatric landscape use, potential interactions, and to help guide their management. METHODS We used kernel density estimates to characterise the seasonal space use of dingoes and feral cats, investigate inter- and intra-species variation in their home range extent and composition, and examine second-order habitat selection for each predator. Further, we used discrete choice modelling and step selection functions to examine the difference in third-order habitat selection across several habitat features. RESULTS The seasonal home ranges of dingoes were on average 19.5 times larger than feral cats. Feral cat seasonal home ranges typically included a larger proportion of grasslands than expected relative to availability in the study site, indicating second-order habitat selection for grasslands. In their fine-scale movements (third-order habitat selection), both predators selected for roads, hydrological features (seasonal intermittent streams, seasonal lakes and wetlands), and high vegetation cover. Dingoes also selected strongly for open woodlands, whereas feral cats used open woodlands and grasslands in proportion to availability. MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Based on these results, and in order to avoid unintended negative ecological consequences (e.g. mesopredator release) that may stem from non-selective predator management, we recommend that feral cat control focuses on techniques such as trapping and shooting that are specific to feral cats in areas where they overlap with apex predators (dingoes), and more general techniques such as poison baiting where they are segregated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L. Wysong
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- Present Address: Nyamba Buru Yawuru, 55 Reid road, Cable Beach, WA 6726 Australia
| | - Bronwyn A. Hradsky
- School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Gwenllian D. Iacona
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Leonie E. Valentine
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Keith Morris
- Biodiversity and Conservation Science, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, WA 6946 Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125 Australia
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30
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Allen BL, Hampton JO. Minimizing animal welfare harms associated with predation management in agro-ecosystems. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2020; 95:1097-1108. [PMID: 32302055 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The impacts of wild predators on livestock are a common source of human-wildlife conflict globally, and predators are subject to population control for this reason in many situations. Animal welfare is one of many important considerations affecting decisions about predation management. Recent studies discussing animal welfare in this context have presented arguments emphasizing the importance of avoiding intentional harm to predators, but they have not usually considered harms imposed by predators on livestock and other animals. Efforts to mitigate predation impacts (including 'no control' approaches) cause a variety of harms to predators, livestock and other wildlife. Successfully minimizing the overall frequency and magnitude of harms requires consideration of the direct, indirect, intentional and unintentional harms imposed on all animals inhabiting agricultural landscapes. We review the harms resulting from the management of dingoes and other wild dogs in the extensive beef cattle grazing systems of Australia to illustrate how these negative impacts can be minimized across both wild and domestic species present on a farm or in a free-ranging livestock grazing context. Similar to many other predator-livestock conflicts, wild dogs impose intermittent harms on beef cattle (especially calves) including fatal predation, non-fatal attack (mauling and biting), pathogen transmission, and fear- or stress-related effects. Wild dog control tools and strategies impose harms on dingoes and other wildlife including stress, pain and death as a consequence of both lethal and non-lethal control approaches. To balance these various sources of harm, we argue that the tactical use of lethal predator control approaches can result in harming the least number of individual animals, given certain conditions. This conclusion conflicts with both traditional (e.g. continuous or ongoing lethal control) and contemporary (e.g. predator-friendly or no-control) predation management approaches. The general and transferable issues, approaches and principles we describe have broad applicability to many other human-wildlife conflicts around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin L Allen
- Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, 4350, Australia.,Centre for African Conservation Ecology, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, 6034, South Africa
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31
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Verification of rabbits as intermediate hosts for Linguatula serrata (Pentastomida) in Australia. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:1553-1562. [PMID: 32236709 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06670-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
We confirm the presence of nymphs of the introduced pentastomid, Linguatula serrata, in the introduced rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, in Australia, based on morphological and molecular results. Two nymphs were collected from a single rabbit near the Kosciuszko National Park in New South Wales. Unlike reports of nymphs from domestic animals, these nymphs were not encapsulated, despite having the morphological features of infective nymphs. The possibility of different development pathways in lagomorphs is discussed. Examination of feral deer for L. serrata was unsuccessful and potential reasons for a lack of infection in these animals are postulated. Our results reiterate the need for a combined morphological and molecular approach to the identification of L. serrata. Further sampling of a range of feral and native animals is required to determine the true range of intermediate hosts and their relative importance in the transmission of L. serrata in Australia.
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Wysong ML, Iacona GD, Valentine LE, Morris K, Ritchie EG. On the right track: placement of camera traps on roads improves detection of predators and shows non-target impacts of feral cat baiting. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
ContextTo understand the ecological consequences of predator management, reliable and accurate methods are needed to survey and detect predators and the species with which they interact. Recently, poison baits have been developed specifically for lethal and broad-scale control of feral cats in Australia. However, the potential non-target effects of these baits on other predators, including native apex predators (dingoes), and, in turn, cascading effects on lower trophic levels (large herbivores), are poorly understood.
AimsWe examined the effect that variation in camera trapping-survey design has on detecting dingoes, feral cats and macropodids, and how different habitat types affect species occurrences. We then examined how a feral cat poison baiting event influences the occupancy of these sympatric species.
MethodsWe deployed 80 remotely triggered camera traps over the 2410-km2 Matuwa Indigenous Protected Area, in the semiarid rangelands of Western Australia, and used single-season site-occupancy models to calculate detection probabilities and occupancy for our target species before and after baiting.
Key resultsCameras placed on roads were ~60 times more likely to detect dingoes and feral cats than were off-road cameras, whereas audio lures designed to attract feral cats had only a slight positive effect on detection for all target species. Habitat was a significant factor affecting the occupancy of dingoes and macropodids, but not feral cats, with both species being positively associated with open woodlands. Poison baiting to control feral cats did not significantly reduce their occupancy but did so for dingoes, whereas macropodid occupancy increased following baiting and reduced dingo occupancy.
ConclusionsCamera traps on roads greatly increase the detection probabilities for predators, whereas audio lures appear to add little or no value to increasing detection for any of the species we targeted. Poison baiting of an invasive mesopredator appeared to negatively affect a non-target, native apex predator, and, in turn, may have resulted in increased activity of large herbivores.
ImplicationsManagement and monitoring of predators must pay careful attention to survey design, and lethal control of invasive mesopredators should be approached cautiously so as to avoid potential unintended negative ecological consequences (apex-predator suppression and herbivore release).
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Smith BP, Morrant DS, Vague AL, Doherty TS. High rates of cannibalism and food waste consumption by dingoes living at a remote mining operation in the Great Sandy Desert, Western Australia. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/am19033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Mining operations in remote Australia represent a unique opportunity to examine the impact of supplementary food and water provision on local wildlife. Here, we present a dietary analysis of dingoes living at a mine site in the Great Sandy Desert, Western Australia. A total of 270 faeces (scats) were collected from across the mine footprint on two occasions three months apart. The most frequently consumed food resource was anthropogenic (rubbish), which was found in 218 of 270 faeces (80.7% of scats and 65.3% of scat volume). Also of note was a high proportion of dingo remains, which was found in 51 of 270 faeces (18.9% of scats and 10.4% of scat volume), suggesting the occurrence of cannibalism. These findings highlight the potential influence of human-modified areas and associated resource availability on the diet of dingoes, and have implications for the environmental management of areas surrounding mining operations.
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Watts ET, Johnson CN, Carver S, Butler C, Harvey AM, Cameron EZ. Maternal protectiveness in feral horses: responses to intraspecific and interspecific sources of risk. Anim Behav 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2019.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Woolley LA, Murphy BP, Geyle HM, Legge SM, Palmer RA, Dickman CR, Doherty TS, Edwards GP, Riley J, Turpin JM, Woinarski JCZ. Introduced cats eating a continental fauna: invertebrate consumption by feral cats (Felis catus) in Australia. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Abstract ContextRecent global concern over invertebrate declines has drawn attention to the causes and consequences of this loss of biodiversity. Feral cats, Felis catus, pose a major threat to many vertebrate species in Australia, but their effect on invertebrates has not previously been assessed. AimsThe objectives of our study were to (1) assess the frequency of occurrence (FOO) of invertebrates in feral cat diets across Australia and the environmental and geographic factors associated with this variation, (2) estimate the number of invertebrates consumed by feral cats annually and the spatial variation of this consumption, and (3) interpret the conservation implications of these results. MethodsFrom 87 Australian cat-diet studies, we modelled the factors associated with variation in invertebrate FOO in feral cat-diet samples. We used these modelled relationships to predict the number of invertebrates consumed by feral cats in largely natural and highly modified environments. Key resultsIn largely natural environments, the mean invertebrate FOO in feral cat dietary samples was 39% (95% CI: 31–43.5%), with Orthoptera being the most frequently recorded order, at 30.3% (95% CI: 21.2–38.3%). The highest invertebrate FOO occurred in lower-rainfall areas with a lower mean annual temperature, and in areas of greater tree cover. Mean annual invertebrate consumption by feral cats in largely natural environments was estimated to be 769 million individuals (95% CI: 422–1763 million) and in modified environments (with mean FOO of 27.8%) 317 million invertebrates year−1, giving a total estimate of 1086 million invertebrates year−1 consumed by feral cats across the continent. ConclusionsThe number of invertebrates consumed by feral cats in Australia is greater than estimates for vertebrate taxa, although the biomass (and, hence, importance for cat diet) of invertebrates taken would be appreciably less. The impact of predation by cats on invertebrates is difficult to assess because of the lack of invertebrate population and distribution estimates, but cats may pose a threat to some large-bodied narrowly restricted invertebrate species. ImplicationsFurther empirical studies of local and continental invertebrate diversity, distribution and population trends are required to adequately contextualise the conservation threat posed by feral cats to invertebrates across Australia.
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Nattrass N, Drouilly M, O'Riain MJ. Learning from science and history about black‐backed jackals
Canis mesomelas
and their conflict with sheep farmers in South Africa. Mamm Rev 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicoli Nattrass
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild) University of Cape Town Cape Town Private Bag X3, Rondebosch 7701 South Africa
| | - Marine Drouilly
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild) University of Cape Town Cape Town Private Bag X3, Rondebosch 7701 South Africa
| | - M. Justin O'Riain
- Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild) University of Cape Town Cape Town Private Bag X3, Rondebosch 7701 South Africa
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Forsyth DM, Pople A, Woodford L, Brennan M, Amos M, Moloney PD, Fanson B, Story G. Landscape-scale effects of homesteads, water, and dingoes on invading chital deer in Australia’s dry tropics. J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Identifying landscape features and processes that facilitate the persistence of populations is particularly important for invasive mammal species, because it can focus management interventions on relatively small areas. We used camera traps to test predictions concerning the relative abundance of invading chital deer (Axis axis) on seven cattle ranches in northern Australia: that abundance of chital deer would be highest near permanent water and near homesteads, and that dingoes (Canis dingo) reduce abundance of chital deer. Distance from the nearest homestead determined deer abundance (as indexed by images per camera-day), with negligible abundance > 4 km from homesteads. In contrast, distance from homestead did not predict abundance of feral pigs (Sus scrofa), macropods, or dingoes. Abundance of chital deer also declined with increasing distance from water, as did feral pig abundance. There was no relationship between either macropod or dingo abundance and distance to water. The abundance of chital deer was unaffected by dingo abundance, but 75–100% of dingo scats collected within 1 km of homesteads contained chital deer. The high abundances of chital deer near homesteads are likely due to increased food quality or quantity, or protection from dingoes, but these hypotheses require further testing. We conclude that homesteads and permanent water are important determinants of the distribution and abundance of invasive chital deer in northern Australia (i.e., they are “invasion hubs” for this species). Our results suggest that, during the dry season, managers should survey for and attempt to control chital deer within 4 km of homesteads and within 3 km of water.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research Unit, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anthony Pople
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Luke Woodford
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Brennan
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Matt Amos
- Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul D Moloney
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Fanson
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Georgeanna Story
- Scats About Ecological, Majors Creek, New South Wales, Australia
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Newsome TM, Howden C, Wirsing AJ. Restriction of anthropogenic foods alters a top predator’s diet and intraspecific interactions. J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAnthropogenic foods are utilized by many animals around the world, and these resources could impact dietary preferences and intra- and interspecific interactions. Under a quasi-Before-After-Control-Impact experimental design, we assessed how dingoes (Canis dingo) responded to a decline in anthropogenic foods in the Tanami Desert, central Australia. We did so by assessing dingo diets close to and away from human influence during a period when food waste was available at two rubbish tips, and then during a period when food waste was restricted at one of the tips. Our results demonstrate that access to anthropogenic foods can alter a top predator’s diet. Namely, dingoes showed a preference for eating the desert mouse (Pseudomys desertor) in areas where food waste was restricted, whereas dingo diets did not reflect ambient prey availability at areas where food waste was constantly available. Reduced availability of food waste also affected interactions between dingoes, with cannibalism decreasing where food waste was removed, and it may have increased consumption of a subordinate mesopredator, the feral cat (Felis catus). By implication, efforts to manage food waste could reestablish or strengthen interactions between predators and their wild prey with possible cascading consequences for ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Chris Howden
- Sydney Informatics Hub, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aaron J Wirsing
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Forsyth DM, Ramsey DSL, Woodford LP. Estimating abundances, densities, and interspecific associations in a carnivore community. J Wildl Manage 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.21675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David M. Forsyth
- Vertebrate Pest Research UnitNSW Department of Primary Industries1447 Forest Road Orange New South Wales 2800 Australia
| | - David S. L. Ramsey
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental ResearchDepartment of Environment, Land, Water and Planning123 Brown Street Heidelberg Victoria 3084 Australia
| | - Luke P. Woodford
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental ResearchDepartment of Environment, Land, Water and Planning123 Brown Street Heidelberg Victoria 3084 Australia
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McHugh D, Goldingay RL, Link J, Letnic M. Habitat and introduced predators influence the occupancy of small threatened macropods in subtropical Australia. Ecol Evol 2019; 9:6300-6317. [PMID: 31236222 PMCID: PMC6580277 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.5203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Australia has had the highest rate of mammal extinctions in the past two centuries when compared to other continents. Frequently cited threats include habitat loss and fragmentation, changed fire regimes and the impact of introduced predators, namely the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the feral cat (Felis catus). Recent studies suggest that Australia's top predator, the dingo (Canis dingo), may have a suppressive effect on fox populations but not on cat populations. The landscape of fear hypothesis proposes that habitat used by prey species comprises high to low risk patches for foraging as determined by the presence and ubiquity of predators within the ecosystem. This results in a landscape of risky versus safe areas for prey species. We investigated the influence of habitat and its interaction with predatory mammals on the occupancy of medium-sized mammals with a focus on threatened macropodid marsupials (the long-nosed potoroo [Potorous tridactylous] and red-legged pademelon [Thylogale stigmatica]). We assumed that differential use of habitats would reflect trade-offs between food and safety. We predicted that medium-sized mammals would prefer habitats for foraging that reduce the risk of predation but that predators would have a positive relationship with medium-sized mammals. We variously used data from 298 camera trap sites across nine conservation reserves in subtropical Australia. Both dingoes and feral cats were broadly distributed, whilst the red fox was rare. Long-nosed potoroos had a strong positive association with dense ground cover, consistent with using habitat complexity to escape predation. Red-legged pademelons showed a preference for open ground cover, consistent with a reliance on rapid bounding to escape predation. Dingoes preferred areas of open ground cover whereas feral cats showed no specific habitat preference. Dingoes were positively associated with long-nosed potoroos whilst feral cats were positively associated with red-legged pademelons. Our study highlights the importance of habitat structure to these threatened mammals and also the need for more detailed study of their interactions with their predators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren McHugh
- School of Environment, Science and EngineeringSouthern Cross UniversityLismoreNew South WalesAustralia
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife ServiceIlukaNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Ross L. Goldingay
- School of Environment, Science and EngineeringSouthern Cross UniversityLismoreNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Jeremy Link
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife ServiceIlukaNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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Tatler J, Prowse TAA, Roshier DA, Allen BL, Cassey P. Resource pulses affect prey selection and reduce dietary diversity of dingoes in arid Australia. Mamm Rev 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jack Tatler
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Adelaide Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
| | - Thomas A. A. Prowse
- School of Mathematical SciencesUniversity of Adelaide Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
| | - David A. Roshier
- Australian Wildlife Conservancy PO Box 8070 Subiaco East WA 6008 Australia
- Australia Centre for Ecosystem ScienceUniversity of New South Wales Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Benjamin L. Allen
- Institute for Life Sciences and the EnvironmentUniversity of Southern Queensland Toowoomba Queensland 4350 Australia
| | - Phillip Cassey
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of Adelaide Adelaide SA 5005 Australia
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Wysong ML, Tulloch AIT, Valentine LE, Hobbs RJ, Morris K, Ritchie EG. The truth about cats and dogs: assessment of apex- and mesopredator diets improves with reduced observer uncertainty. J Mammal 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyz040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Wysong
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ayesha I T Tulloch
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Leonie E Valentine
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Richard J Hobbs
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Keith Morris
- Science and Conservation Division, Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Woodvale, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Euan G Ritchie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Centre for Integrative Ecology, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The Australian dingo continues to cause debate amongst Aboriginal people, pastoralists, scientists and the government in Australia. A lingering controversy is whether the dingo has been tamed and has now reverted to its ancestral wild state or whether its ancestors were domesticated and it now resides on the continent as a feral dog. The goal of this article is to place the discussion onto a theoretical framework, highlight what is currently known about dingo origins and taxonomy and then make a series of experimentally testable organismal, cellular and biochemical predictions that we propose can focus future research. DISCUSSION We consider a canid that has been unconsciously selected as a tamed animal and the endpoint of methodical or what we now call artificial selection as a domesticated animal. We consider wild animals that were formerly tamed as untamed and those wild animals that were formerly domesticated as feralized. Untamed canids are predicted to be marked by a signature of unconscious selection whereas feral animals are hypothesized to be marked by signatures of both unconscious and artificial selection. First, we review the movement of dingo ancestors into Australia. We then discuss how differences between taming and domestication may influence the organismal traits of skull morphometrics, brain and size, seasonal breeding, and sociability. Finally, we consider cellular and molecular level traits including hypotheses concerning the phylogenetic position of dingoes, metabolic genes that appear to be under positive selection and the potential for micronutrient compensation by the gut microbiome. CONCLUSIONS Western Australian Government policy is currently being revised to allow the widespread killing of the Australian dingo. These policies are based on an incomplete understanding of the evolutionary history of the canid and assume the dingo is feralized. However, accumulated evidence does not definitively show that the dingo was ever domesticated and additional focused research is required. We suggest that incorporating ancient DNA data into the debate concerning dingo origins will be pivotal to understanding the evolutionary history of the canid. Further, we advocate that future morphological, behavioural and genetic studies should focus on including genetically pure Alpine and Desert dingoes and not dingo-dog hybrids. Finally, we propose that future studies critically examine genes under selection in the dingo and employ the genome from a wild canid for comparison.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. William O. Ballard
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Laura A. B. Wilson
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
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