Factors and mechanisms that explain coexistence in a Mediterranean carnivore assemblage: An integrated study based on camera trapping and diet

摘要: Abstract To promote management and conservation, it is useful to identify the factors that determine species distribution understand mechanisms regulate organization of assemblages or influence dynamics communities. Using information provided by 842 camera-trap photos 8175 scats, we studied favour coexistence European badgers ( Meles meles ), red foxes Vulpes vulpes ) stone martens Martes foina in a Mediterranean, agroforestry environment Iberian Peninsula. With extensive, simultaneous occupation space, activity during broad time period (basically nocturnal crepuscular patterns), carnivores displayed different strategies depending on availability resources. In summer when plant resources were abundant easy access, there was high overlap patterns diet activity, temporal avoidance superior competitor allowed joint use same plots. autumn, fewer (although still sufficient) harder maintenance food compensated for reduction overlapping activity. winter spring, differentiation response behaviour evident partial substitution Differentiation niche dimensions has been linked complementarity, differential needs capacities each species, their biology. compatible with hierarchical structure carnivores: badger; fox; marten. Knowledge these increases our understanding can help prediction responses disturbances. Consequently, helps improve conservation actions.