1
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Crosby CH, Schlacher TA, Kerwin K, Maslo B. Impacts of coyote colonization on coastal mammalian predators. Sci Rep 2024; 14:17868. [PMID: 39090258 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-68698-9] [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: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Extreme ecosystem modification by humans has caused drastic reductions in populations and ranges of top mammalian predators, while simultaneously allowing synanthropic mesopredator species to expand. These conditions often result in inflated local densities of highly adaptable mesopredators that disrupt trophic dynamics and place unsustainable predation pressure on native prey populations. Colonization of a dominant predator may lead to top-down control of mesopredators and restore trophic balance. Coyotes are a novel colonizer of some coastal barrier islands of eastern North America, offering an opportunity to test how the addition of an apex predator impacts an established guild of mesopredators. To assess their trophic impact, we conducted 75,576 camera trapping hours over an 18-month study period, capturing > 1.5 million images across 108 coastal camera sites. Using two-species occupancy and habitat use models, we found sizeable effects of coyote habitat use on that of red foxes and free-ranging domestic cats, suggesting that coyotes function as apex predators in barrier island ecosystems. In fact, the only factor that determined the spatial pattern of highly ubiquitous red foxes was the sympatric habitat use of the largest carnivore in the food web-coyotes. That 'novel' apex predators can become established in coastal food webs illustrates the highly dynamic nature of conservation challenges for habitats and species at the edge of the sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian H Crosby
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 14 College Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
| | - Thomas A Schlacher
- School of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, 4558, Australia
| | - Kathleen Kerwin
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 14 College Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Brooke Maslo
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 14 College Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
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2
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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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3
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Badenes‐Pérez FR. The impacts of free‐roaming cats cannot be generalized and their role in rodent management should not be overlooked. CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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4
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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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5
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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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6
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Botha AE, Bruns AC, le Roux A. The spatial ecology of black-backed jackals ( Canis mesomelas) in a protected mountainous grassland area. AFRICAN ZOOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2022.2057818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Edward Botha
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, Phuthaditjhaba, South Africa
- Afromontane Research Unit, University of the Free State, Phuthaditjhaba, South Africa
| | - Angela Caren Bruns
- South African National Parks, Veterinary Wildlife Services, Kimberley, South Africa
| | - Aliza le Roux
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, Phuthaditjhaba, South Africa
- Afromontane Research Unit, University of the Free State, Phuthaditjhaba, South Africa
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7
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Stobo‐Wilson AM, Murphy BP, Legge SM, Caceres‐Escobar H, Chapple DG, Crawford HM, Dawson SJ, Dickman CR, Doherty TS, Fleming PA, Garnett ST, Gentle M, Newsome TM, Palmer R, Rees MW, Ritchie EG, Speed J, Stuart J, Suarez‐Castro AF, Thompson E, Tulloch A, Turpin JM, Woinarski JC. Counting the bodies: Estimating the numbers and spatial variation of Australian reptiles, birds and mammals killed by two invasive mesopredators. DIVERS DISTRIB 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alyson M. Stobo‐Wilson
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Casuarina Northern Territory Australia
- CSIRO Land and Water Winnellie Northern Territory Australia
| | - Brett P. Murphy
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Casuarina Northern Territory Australia
| | - Sarah M. Legge
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Casuarina Northern Territory Australia
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Research School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland St. Lucia Queensland Australia
- Fenner School of Environment and Society The Australian National University Canberra Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - Hernan Caceres‐Escobar
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Research School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland St. Lucia Queensland Australia
| | - David G. Chapple
- School of Biological Sciences Monash University Clayton Victoria Australia
| | - Heather M. Crawford
- Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Stuart J. Dawson
- Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
- Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Invasive Species and Environment Biosecurity South Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Chris R. Dickman
- Desert Ecology Research Group School of Life and Environmental Sciences A08 University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Tim S. Doherty
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Patricia A. Fleming
- Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Stephen T. Garnett
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Casuarina Northern Territory Australia
| | - Matthew Gentle
- Pest Animal Research Centre Invasive Plants and Animals Biosecurity Queensland Toowoomba Queensland Australia
- School of Agriculture and Environmental Science University of Southern Queensland Toowoomba Queensland Australia
| | - Thomas M. Newsome
- Global Ecology Lab School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Russell Palmer
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Bentley Western Australia Australia
| | - Matthew W. Rees
- Quantitative & Applied Ecology Group School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Burwood Victoria Australia
| | - James Speed
- Pest Animal Research Centre Invasive Plants and Animals Biosecurity Queensland Toowoomba Queensland Australia
| | - John‐Michael Stuart
- Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability Harry Butler Institute Murdoch University Perth Western Australia Australia
| | - Andrés F. Suarez‐Castro
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Research School of Biological Sciences University of Queensland St. Lucia Queensland Australia
- Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos Alexander von Humboldt Bogota D.C. Colombia
| | - Eilysh Thompson
- Centre for Integrative Ecology School of Life and Environmental Sciences Deakin University Burwood Victoria Australia
| | - Ayesha Tulloch
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Jeff M. Turpin
- School of Environmental and Rural Science University of New England Armidale New South Wales Australia
| | - John C.Z. Woinarski
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Charles Darwin University Casuarina Northern Territory Australia
- School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria Australia
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8
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Rendall AR, Sutherland DR, Cooke R, White JG. Does the foraging ecology of feral cats change after the eradication of foxes? Biol Invasions 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-021-02718-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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9
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Kupferman CA, Crupi AP, Waits LP, Gilbert SL. Spatial and temporal partitioning of mustelids in Southeast Alaska. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A. Kupferman
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory University of Georgia P.O. Drawer E Aiken South Carolina 29802 USA
| | - Anthony P. Crupi
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game 802 3rd Street Douglas Alaska 99824 USA
| | - Lisette P. Waits
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 1136 Moscow Idaho 83844 USA
| | - Sophie L. Gilbert
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Sciences University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 1136 Moscow Idaho 83844 USA
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10
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Human influences shape the first spatially explicit national estimate of urban unowned cat abundance. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20216. [PMID: 34711904 PMCID: PMC8553937 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99298-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, unowned cats are a common element of urban landscapes, and the focus of diverse fields of study due to welfare, conservation and public health concerns. However, their abundance and distribution are poorly understood at large spatial scales. Here, we use an Integrated Abundance Model to counter biases that are inherent in public records of unowned cat sightings to assess important drivers of their abundance from 162 sites across five urban towns and cities in England. We demonstrate that deprivation indices and human population densities contribute to the number of unowned cats. We provide the first spatially explicit estimates of expected distributions and abundance of unowned cats across a national scale and estimate the total UK urban unowned cat population to be 247,429 (95% credible interval: 157,153 to 365,793). Our results provide a new baseline and approach for studies on unowned cats and links to the importance of human-mediated effects.
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11
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Sparkes J, Fleming PJ, McSorley A, Mitchell B. How many feral cats can be individually identified from camera trap images? Population monitoring, ecological utility and camera trap settings. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/emr.12506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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12
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Roshier DA, Carter A. Space use and interactions of two introduced mesopredators, European red fox and feral cat, in an arid landscape. Ecosphere 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.3628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David A. Roshier
- Australian Wildlife Conservancy PO Box 8070 Subiaco East Western Australia 6008 Australia
| | - Andrew Carter
- Australian Wildlife Conservancy PO Box 8070 Subiaco East Western Australia 6008 Australia
- Institute for Land, Water and Society Charles Sturt University PO Box 789 Albury New South Wales 2640 Australia
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13
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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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14
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Ruiz-Villar H, Jubete F, Revilla E, Román J, Urra F, López-Bao JV, Palomares F. Like cat and fox: diurnal interactions between two sympatric carnivores in pastoral landscapes of NW Spain. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-021-01469-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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15
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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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16
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Giraudoux P, Levret A, Afonso E, Coeurdassier M, Couval G. Numerical response of predators to large variations of grassland vole abundance and long-term community changes. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:14221-14246. [PMID: 33391712 PMCID: PMC7771176 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Voles can reach high densities with multiannual population fluctuations of large amplitude, and they are at the base of predator communities in Northern Eurasia and Northern America. This status places them at the heart of management conflicts wherein crop protection and health concerns are often raised against conservation issues. Here, a 20-year survey describes the effects of large variations in grassland vole populations on the densities and the daily theoretical food intakes (TFI) of vole predators based on roadside counts. Our results show how the predator community responded to prey variations of large amplitude and how it reorganized with the increase in a dominant predator, here the red fox, which likely negatively impacted hare, European wildcat, and domestic cat populations. This population increase did not lead to an increase in the average number of predators present in the study area, suggesting compensations among resident species due to intraguild predation or competition. Large variations in vole predator number could be clearly attributed to the temporary increase in the populations of mobile birds of prey in response to grassland vole outbreaks. Our study provides empirical support for more timely and better focused actions in wildlife management and vole population control, and it supports an evidence-based and constructive dialogue about management targets and options between all stakeholders of such socio-ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Giraudoux
- Chrono‐EnvironnementUniversité de Bourgogne Franche‐Comté/CNRS usc INRABesançon CedexFrance
| | | | - Eve Afonso
- Chrono‐EnvironnementUniversité de Bourgogne Franche‐Comté/CNRS usc INRABesançon CedexFrance
| | - Michael Coeurdassier
- Chrono‐EnvironnementUniversité de Bourgogne Franche‐Comté/CNRS usc INRABesançon CedexFrance
| | - Geoffroy Couval
- Chrono‐EnvironnementUniversité de Bourgogne Franche‐Comté/CNRS usc INRABesançon CedexFrance
- FREDON Bourgogne Franche‐ComtéEcole‐ValentinFrance
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17
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Diet of invasive cats, rats and tegu lizards reveals impact over threatened species in a tropical island. Perspect Ecol Conserv 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pecon.2020.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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18
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Feeding behaviour of red fox and domestic cat populations in suburban areas in the south of Paris. Urban Ecosyst 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11252-020-00948-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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19
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Hradsky BA. Conserving Australia’s threatened native mammals in predator-invaded, fire-prone landscapes. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Inappropriate fire regimes and predation by introduced species each pose a major threat to Australia’s native mammals. They also potentially interact, an issue that is likely to be contributing to the ongoing collapse of native mammal communities across Australia. In the present review, I first describe the mechanisms through which fire could create predation pinch points, exacerbating the impacts of predators, including red foxes, Vulpes vulpes, and feral cats, Felis catus, on their native mammalian prey. These mechanisms include a localised increase in predator activity (a numerically mediated pathway) and higher predator hunting success after fire (a functionally moderated pathway), which could both increase native mammal mortality and limit population recovery in fire-affected landscapes. Evidence for such interactions is growing, although largely based on unreplicated experiments. Improving native mammal resilience to fire in predator-invaded landscapes requires addressing two key questions: how can the impacts of introduced predators on native mammals in fire-affected areas be reduced; and, does a reduction in predation by introduced species result in higher native mammal survival and population recovery after fire? I then examine potential management options for reducing predator impacts post-fire. The most feasible are landscape-scale predator control and the manipulation of fire regimes to create patchy fire scars. However, robust field experiments with adequate statistical power are required to assess the effectiveness of these approaches and preclude null (e.g. compensatory mortality) or adverse (e.g. mesopredator or competitor release) outcomes. Ongoing predator management and prescribed burning programs provide an opportunity to learn through replicated natural experiments as well as experimental manipulations. Standardised reporting protocols and cross-jurisdiction monitoring programs would help achieve necessary spatial and environmental replication, while multi-trophic, spatially explicit simulation models could help synthesise findings from disparate study designs, predict management outcomes and generate new hypotheses. Such approaches will be key to improving management of the complex mechanisms that drive threatened native mammal populations in Australia’s predator-invaded, fire-prone landscapes.
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Comer S, Clausen L, Cowen S, Pinder J, Thomas A, Burbidge AH, Tiller C, Algar D, Speldewinde P. Integrating feral cat (Felis catus) control into landscape-scale introduced predator management to improve conservation prospects for threatened fauna: a case study from the south coast of Western Australia. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
ContextFeral cat predation has had a significant impact on native Australian fauna in the past 200 years. In the early 2000s, population monitoring of the western ground parrot showed a dramatic decline from the pre-2000 range, with one of three meta-populations declining to very low levels and a second becoming locally extinct. We review 8 years of integrated introduced predator control, which trialled the incorporation of the feral cat bait Eradicat® into existing fox baiting programs.
AimsTo test the efficacy of integrating feral cat control into an existing introduced predator control program in an adaptive management framework conducted in response to the decline of native species. The objective was to protect the remaining western ground parrot populations and other threatened fauna on the south coast of Western Australia.
MethodsA landscape-scale feral cat and fox baiting program was delivered across south coast reserves that were occupied by western ground parrots in the early 2000s. Up to 500000ha of national parks and natures reserves were baited per annum. Monitoring was established to evaluate both the efficacy of landscape-scale baiting in management of feral cat populations, and the response of several native fauna species, including the western ground parrot, to an integrated introduced predator control program.
Key resultsOn average, 28% of radio-collared feral cats died from Eradicat® baiting each year, over a 5-year period. The results varied from 0% to 62% between years. Changes in site occupancy by feral cats, as measured by detection on camera traps, was also variable, with significant declines detected after baiting in some years and sites. Trends in populations of native fauna, including the western ground parrot and chuditch, showed positive responses to integrated control of foxes and cats.
ImplicationsLandscape-scale baiting of feral cats in ecosystems on the south coast of Western Australia had varying success when measured by direct knockdown of cats and site occupancy as determined by camera trapping; however, native species appeared to respond favourably to integrated predator control. For the protection of native species, we recommend ongoing baiting for both foxes and feral cats, complemented by post-bait trapping of feral cats. We advocate monitoring baiting efficacy in a well designed adaptive management framework to deliver long-term recovery of threatened species that have been impacted by cats.
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Stobo-Wilson AM, Brandle R, Johnson CN, Jones ME. Management of invasive mesopredators in the Flinders Ranges, South Australia: effectiveness and implications. WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/wr19237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
ContextSignificant resources have been devoted to the control of introduced mesopredators in Australia. However, the control or removal of one pest species, such as, for example, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), may inadvertently benefit other invasive species, namely feral cats (Felis catus) and rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), potentially jeopardising native-species recovery.
AimsTo (1) investigate the impact of a large-scale, long-term fox-baiting program on the abundance of foxes, feral cats and introduced and native prey species in the Flinders Ranges, South Australia, and (2) determine the effectiveness of a short time period of cat removal in immediately reducing feral cat abundance where foxes are absent.
MethodsWe conducted an initial camera-trap survey in fox-baited and unbaited sites in the Flinders Ranges, to quantify the impact of fox baiting on the relative abundance of foxes, feral cats and their prey. We then conducted a secondary survey in sites where foxes were absent, following an intensive, but short, time period of cat removal, in which 40 cats were shot and killed.
Key resultsNo foxes were detected within baited sites, but were frequently detected in unbaited sites. We found a corresponding and significant increase in several native prey species in fox-baited sites where foxes were absent. Feral cats and rabbits were also more frequently detected within baited sites, but fox baiting did not singularly predict the abundance of either species. Rather, feral cats were less abundant in open habitat where foxes were present (unbaited), and rabbits were more abundant within one predominantly open-habitat site, where foxes were absent (fox-baited). We found no effect of short-term cat removal in reducing the local abundance of feral cats. In both camera-trap surveys, feral cat detections were positively associated with rabbits.
ConclusionsLong-term fox baiting was effective in fox removal and was associated with a greater abundance of native and introduced prey species in the Flinders Ranges. To continue to recover and conserve regional biodiversity, effective cat control is required.
ImplicationsOur study showed fox removal has likely resulted in the local release of rabbits and an associated increase in cats. Because feral cat abundance seemingly fluctuated with rabbits, we suggest rabbit control may provide an alternative and more effective means to reduce local feral cat populations than short-term removal programs.
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An Evaluation of Systematic Versus Strategically-Placed Camera Traps for Monitoring Feral Cats in New Zealand. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9090687. [PMID: 31527440 PMCID: PMC6769530 DOI: 10.3390/ani9090687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Feral cats are detrimental to native biodiversity worldwide. In New Zealand, feral cats are well established across much of the pastoral landscape, including forested areas. Feral cats, like many carnivore species, are elusive in their nature, and often occur at low densities, making them difficult to detect. Camera traps are a useful, non-invasive monitoring device, capable of ‘capturing’ feral cats as they pass by. Although cameras provide a wealth of information about animals within their field of view; there remains much to be learned about optimal camera trap placement within a landscape, if maximizing detection probability is the objective. Here, we report the results of two methods of camera trap deployment within similar sites: (1) systematic deployment on a grid and (2) strategic deployment, predominantly favoring habitats with assumed higher cat activity. Using the Royle–Nichols abundance-induced heterogeneity model (RN), which assumes detection probability and animal abundance are linked, we found that more cats were detected by cameras at forest margins than in mixed scrub or open farmland (but only slightly more than in forest locations). If maximizing cat detections is the aim, we recommend that cameras should be placed at the edges of forests (including forest fragments) whenever feasible. Abstract We deploy camera traps to monitor feral cat (Felis catus) populations at two pastoral sites in Hawke’s Bay, North Island, New Zealand. At Site 1, cameras are deployed at pre-determined GPS points on a 500-m grid, and at Site 2, cameras are strategically deployed with a bias towards forest and forest margin habitat where possible. A portion of cameras are also deployed in open farmland habitat and mixed scrub. We then use the abundance-induced heterogeneity Royle–Nichols model to estimate mean animal abundance and detection probabilities for cameras in each habitat type. Model selection suggests that only cat abundance varies by habitat type. Mean cat abundance is highest at forest margin cameras for both deployment methods (3 cats [95% CI 1.9–4.5] Site 1, and 1.7 cats [95% CI 1.2–2.4] Site 2) but not substantially higher than in forest habitats (1.7 cats [95% CI 0.8–3.6] Site 1, and 1.5 cats [95% CI 1.1–2.0] Site 2). Model selection shows detection probabilities do not vary substantially by habitat (although they are also higher for cameras in forest margins and forest habitats) and are similar between sites (8.6% [95% CI 5.4–13.4] Site 1, and 8.3% [5.8–11.9] Site 2). Cat detections by camera traps are higher when placed in forests and forest margins; thus, strategic placement may be preferable when monitoring feral cats in a pastoral landscape.
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Alonso Aguirre A, Basu N, Kahn LH, Morin XK, Echaubard P, Wilcox BA, Beasley VR. Transdisciplinary and social-ecological health frameworks-Novel approaches to emerging parasitic and vector-borne diseases. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2019; 4:e00084. [PMID: 30701206 PMCID: PMC6348238 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2019.e00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ecosystem Health, Conservation Medicine, EcoHealth, One Health, Planetary Health and GeoHealth are inter-related disciplines that underpin a shared understanding of the functional prerequisites of health, sustainable vitality and wellbeing. All of these are based on recognition that health interconnects species across the planet, and they offer ways to more effectively tackle complex real-world challenges. Herein we present a bibliometric analysis to document usage of a subset of such terms by journals over time. We also provide examples of parasitic and vector-borne diseases, including malaria, toxoplasmosis, baylisascariasis, and Lyme disease. These and many other diseases have persisted, emerged or re-emerged, and caused great harm to human and animal populations in developed and low income, biodiverse nations around the world, largely because of societal drivers that undermined natural processes of disease prevention and control, which had developed through co-evolution over millennia. Shortcomings in addressing drivers has arisen from a lack or coordinated efforts among researchers, health stewards, societies at large, and governments. Fortunately, specialists collaborating under transdisciplinary and socio-ecological health umbrellas are increasingly integrating established and new techniques for disease modeling, prediction, diagnosis, treatment, control, and prevention. Such approaches often emphasize conservation of biodiversity for health protection, and they provide novel opportunities to increase the efficiency and probability of success.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Alonso Aguirre
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, College of Science, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Niladri Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Laura H. Kahn
- Program on Science and Global Security, Woodrow Wilson School of Public & International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Xenia K. Morin
- Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers University, NJ, USA
| | - Pierre Echaubard
- Global Health Asia Institute, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Bruce A. Wilcox
- Global Health Asia Institute, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Val R. Beasley
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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McComb LB, Lentini PE, Harley DKP, Lumsden LF, Antrobus JS, Eyre AC, Briscoe NJ. Feral cat predation on Leadbeater’s possum (Gymobelideus leadbeateri) and observations of arboreal hunting at nest boxes. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1071/am18010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Feral cats have been identified as a major threat to Australian wildlife; however, their impacts on the critically endangered Leadbeater’s possum (Gymobelideus leadbeateri) are unknown. Here, we describe camera trap observations of a feral cat hunting at nest boxes occupied by Leadbeater’s possum. Seven feral cats were subsequently captured within the surrounding area: two had Leadbeater’s possum remains in their stomachs. The prevalence of cat predation on this species, particularly at nest boxes, and how this can be mitigated warrants further investigation.
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Castañeda I, Bellard C, Jarić I, Pisanu B, Chapuis J, Bonnaud E. Trophic patterns and home‐range size of two generalist urban carnivores: a review. J Zool (1987) 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I. Castañeda
- Centre d'Ecologie et des Sciences de la Conservation (CESCO UMR 7204) Sorbonne Universités MNHN CNRS UPMC Paris France
- Ecologie, Systématique et Evolution (UMR CNRS 8079) Université Paris‐Sud XI Orsay Cedex France
| | - C. Bellard
- Unité Biologie des Organismes et Écosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA UMR 7208) Sorbonne Universités Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle Université Pierre et Marie Curie Université de Caen Normandie CNRS, IRD Université des Antilles Paris France
| | - I. Jarić
- Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences Institute of Hydrobiology České Budějovice Czech Republic
- Leibniz‐Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries Berlin Germany
- Institute for Multidisciplinary Research University of Belgrade Belgrade Serbia
| | - B. Pisanu
- Centre d'Ecologie et des Sciences de la Conservation (CESCO UMR 7204) Sorbonne Universités MNHN CNRS UPMC Paris France
- UMS 2006 Patrimoine Naturel AFB, MNHN CNRS Paris France
| | - J.‐L. Chapuis
- Centre d'Ecologie et des Sciences de la Conservation (CESCO UMR 7204) Sorbonne Universités MNHN CNRS UPMC Paris France
| | - E. Bonnaud
- Ecologie, Systématique et Evolution (UMR CNRS 8079) Université Paris‐Sud XI Orsay Cedex France
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Geary WL, Ritchie EG, Lawton JA, Healey TR, Nimmo DG. Incorporating disturbance into trophic ecology: Fire history shapes mesopredator suppression by an apex predator. J Appl Ecol 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William L. Geary
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Euan G. Ritchie
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Jessica A. Lawton
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Thomas R. Healey
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Centre for Integrative Ecology (Burwood Campus); Deakin University; Burwood Vic. Australia
| | - Dale G. Nimmo
- School of Environmental Science; Institute for Land, Water and Society; Charles Sturt University; Albury NSW Australia
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Hunter DO, Lagisz M, Leo V, Nakagawa S, Letnic M. Not all predators are equal: a continent‐scale analysis of the effects of predator control on Australian mammals. Mamm Rev 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel O. Hunter
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Malgorzata Lagisz
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre and School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Viyanna Leo
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre and School of Biological Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
| | - Mike Letnic
- Centre for Ecosystem Science University of New South Wales NSW 2052 Sydney Australia
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Woinarski JCZ, Murphy BP, Palmer R, Legge SM, Dickman CR, Doherty TS, Edwards G, Nankivell A, Read JL, Stokeld D. How many reptiles are killed by cats in Australia? WILDLIFE RESEARCH 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/wr17160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Context Feral cats (Felis catus) are a threat to biodiversity globally, but their impacts upon continental reptile faunas have been poorly resolved. Aims To estimate the number of reptiles killed annually in Australia by cats and to list Australian reptile species known to be killed by cats. Methods We used (1) data from >80 Australian studies of cat diet (collectively >10 000 samples), and (2) estimates of the feral cat population size, to model and map the number of reptiles killed by feral cats. Key results Feral cats in Australia’s natural environments kill 466 million reptiles yr–1 (95% CI; 271–1006 million). The tally varies substantially among years, depending on changes in the cat population driven by rainfall in inland Australia. The number of reptiles killed by cats is highest in arid regions. On average, feral cats kill 61 reptiles km–2 year–1, and an individual feral cat kills 225 reptiles year–1. The take of reptiles per cat is higher than reported for other continents. Reptiles occur at a higher incidence in cat diet than in the diet of Australia’s other main introduced predator, the European red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Based on a smaller sample size, we estimate 130 million reptiles year–1 are killed by feral cats in highly modified landscapes, and 53 million reptiles year–1 by pet cats, summing to 649 million reptiles year–1 killed by all cats. Predation by cats is reported for 258 Australian reptile species (about one-quarter of described species), including 11 threatened species. Conclusions Cat predation exerts a considerable ongoing toll on Australian reptiles. However, it remains challenging to interpret the impact of this predation in terms of population viability or conservation concern for Australian reptiles, because population size is unknown for most Australian reptile species, mortality rates due to cats will vary across reptile species and because there is likely to be marked variation among reptile species in their capability to sustain any particular predation rate. Implications This study provides a well grounded estimate of the numbers of reptiles killed by cats, but intensive studies of individual reptile species are required to contextualise the conservation consequences of such predation.
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Moro D, Byrne M, Kennedy M, Campbell S, Tizard M. Identifying knowledge gaps for gene drive research to control invasive animal species: The next CRISPR step. Glob Ecol Conserv 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2017.e00363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
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Woinarski JCZ, South SL, Drummond P, Johnston GR, Nankivell A. The diet of the feral cat (Felis catus), red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and dog (Canis familiaris) over a three-year period at Witchelina Reserve, in arid South Australia. AUSTRALIAN MAMMALOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/am17033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduced predators have had, and continue to have, severe impacts on Australian biodiversity. At a recently established conservation reserve, Witchelina, in arid South Australia, we assessed the diet of feral cats (Felis catus) (404 samples), red fox (Vulpes vulpes) (51 samples) and dog (Canis familiaris) (11 samples) over a 3-year period. There was marked overlap (98.5%) in dietary composition between cats and foxes. Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) comprised a major dietary item for all three predators. Invertebrates contributed the largest number of prey items for foxes and cats, but mammals comprised the bulk, by weight, for all three predators. Birds and reptiles had a higher frequency of occurrence in the diet of cats than of foxes or dogs. The size of mammal prey taken was least for cats and greatest for dogs. The diets of cats and foxes showed significant seasonal variation, with reptiles and invertebrates being least common in the diet in winter. The threatened thick-billed grasswren (Amytornis modestus) was found for the first time in the diet of feral cats. Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) occurred in about one-third of cat and fox samples. This study contributes further to the evidence of biodiversity impacts of introduced predators, and the need for their strategic management.
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