Feeding behaviour of lions (Panthera leo) on a small reserve
The prey selection and predatory behaviour of a single pride of lions (Panthera leo) was studied in the 8500 ha Karongwe Game Reserve from 1999–2005. The study focused on the difference between prey selection in the first three years when a two-male coalition was present with a similar period thereafter when one of the males […]
The applicability of lion prey selection models to smaller game reserves in South Africa
Prey selection by lions (Panthera leo) reintroduced into small game reserves (typically <1000 km2) in South Africa was compared with results from larger (more naturally functioning) protected areas. Prey selection was used to calculate mean preference indices, and where sample size allowed, tested for significance of preference, as well as for comparisons with current estimates […]
Migratory herds of wildebeests and zebras indirectly affect calf survival of giraffes
In long-distance migratory systems, local fluctuations in the predator–prey ratio can exhibit extreme variability within a single year depending upon the seasonal location of migratory species. Such systems offer an opportunity to empirically investigate cyclic population density effects on short-term food web interactions by taking advantage of the large seasonal shifts in migratory prey biomass. […]
Conservation conundrum: Endangered predators eating endangered prey
As populations of wildlife dwindle in number, and as ecosystems suitable for animals disappear, conservation conundrums emerge that have no easy solutions. One such issue involves predators and prey. What can be done when an endangered species of predators might be hastening the extinction of an endangered species of prey by including it in their […]
Using claw marks to study lion predation on giraffes of the Serengeti
Although lions Panthera leo are the main predators of the giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis, interactions between these species are rarely observed directly. As a consequence, little is known about the effects of lions on giraffe mortality and behavior. We test patterns of lion predation on Masai giraffes Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi using a new methodology: lion claw […]
African lion (Panthera leo) behavior, monitoring, and survival in human-dominated landscapes
Chapter 1, “Demography of a persecuted African lion population,” investigates the basic demographic characteristics of a lion population on human and livestock dominated lands where unregulated, retaliatory hunting of both sexes and all ages had occurred for centuries. I also examine the individual characteristics of stock-raiding lions. Chapter 2, “Participatory monitoring of an elusive carnivore […]
Prey preferences of the spotted hyaena ( Crocuta crocuta ) and degree of dietary overlap with the lion (Panthera leo)
Spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta were once considered mere scavengers; however, detailed research revealed that they are very efficient predators. Information on what spotted hyaenas actually prefer to prey on and what they avoid is lacking, as well as the factors that influence prey selection. Data from 14 published and one unpublished study from six countries […]
Factors affecting the hunting success of male and female lions in the Kruger National Park
Long-term continuous observations of hunting lions Panthera leo in the Kruger National Park were used to assess the variables affecting hunting success of male and female lions. Generalized linear models revealed that seven variables had significant independent influences on hunting success, with the most important being the prey species hunted. Three types of variables were […]