Predation on wild lemurs and other fauna

What is it about?

Introduced species have the potential to negatively impact Madagascar’s endemic flora and fauna, but studies have primarily utilized camera trap observations and occupancy modelling to better clarify the presence/absence and temporal overlap of endemic and exotic predators. Longitudinal data from field research sites are important as they can provide a finer understanding of predator dynamics and their effects on endemic species. Results from a study of predation at the Bezà Mahafaly Special Reserve, in southern Madagascar used a combination of scat sampling, field observations and camera trap data to better assess the predator. Results indicate that forest cats (Felis catus), are effective predators of both adult and infant lemurs and appear to be a constant mammalian predator, utilizing mammal prey more than dogs. Dogs are also lemur predators but may also act as scavengers. The fosa, Cryptoprocta ferox, are also present but may not hunt in the area continuously. The killing of an adult ring-tailed lemur by two men from outside the area indicate culturally imposed taboos against lemur killing may no longer be effective given that new arrivals may not share the same local cultural restrictions.

Featured Image

Photo by ran liwen on Unsplash

Photo by ran liwen on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Long-term studies with multiple assessments of predation can provide a clearer understanding of how non-endemic and endemic predators affect endangered species survival.