Relative Preference and Localized Food Affect Predator Space Use and Consumption of Incidental Prey

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Behavioral Ecology
• Predator-Prey Dynamics

Background:

• Localized food resources can concentrate predators, influencing predation risk distribution and predator prey preferences.
• The spatial scale of these effects on predator foraging and incidental prey consumption is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally investigate how point-source food availability affects predator space utilization and incidental prey consumption.
• To determine the influence of food type and proximity on predator activity and risk for incidental prey.

Main Methods:

• Experimentally manipulated food resources (sunflower seeds, corn) and control feeders.
• Monitored white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus) activity using track plates.
• Quantified mouse population density and consumption rates of incidental prey (almonds, maple seeds).

Main Results:

• Mouse activity was highest near control feeders, contrary to predictions.
• Highly preferred food feeders created prey refuges at intermediate distances (15-25m).
• Less-preferred food feeders increased risk for preferred incidental prey within 10m.

Conclusions:

• Abundant, localized food sources have contingent, predictable effects on incidental prey risk.
• The spatial scale and nature of risk depend on food type, prey preference, and proximity to food resources.