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Activity Patterns and Predator-Prey Temporal Overlap in the High Tiger-Density Area Bardia National Park, Nepal
Bishnu Prasad Shrestha1,2, Joost De Jong1, Anouschka R Hof1
1Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group Wageningen University Wageningen the Netherlands.
Ecology and Evolution
|June 8, 2026
Summary
Predator and prey activity patterns in Nepal show significant overlap, especially in areas with high tiger density. This lack of temporal separation challenges prey survival and highlights the impact of ecological factors on predator-prey dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Wildlife Biology
- Conservation Science
Background:
- Prey and predator activity patterns are influenced by weather and predation risk.
- Limited research exists on predator-prey temporal overlap in tropical regions with high predator density and seasonality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess temporal activity overlap between Royal Bengal tigers and their primary prey in a high-density tiger area.
- To examine how seasonality and prey body size affect this predator-prey overlap.
Main Methods:
- A 5-year camera trap survey was conducted in Bardia National Park, Nepal.
- Daily activity patterns of tigers and four deer species were analyzed.
- Temporal overlap was quantified using camera trap data from May 2019 to April 2024.
Main Results:
- Tigers and sambar exhibited cathemeral activity, hog deer were diurnal, and muntjac and chital were crepuscular.
- Most species reduced activity during the hottest part of the day.
- Significant activity overlap was observed between tigers and deer, with seasonal variations in deer activity but not tiger activity.
Conclusions:
- High tiger density likely drives the substantial temporal overlap between tigers and prey, increasing predation risk for deer.
- Ecological factors and seasonal weather significantly shape predator-prey interactions.
- Findings have implications for tiger conservation strategies in Nepal.
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