Demographic and Spatial Responses of Coyotes to Changes in Food and Exploitation

摘要: Lethal control for reducing carnivore populations is a contentious issue throughout the world. While computer simulations have been developed modeling effects of population reduction on coyote (Canis latrans) parameters, testing these hypotheses with empirical data from field lacking. We documented demographic and spatial responses coyotes to changes in levels food resources human exploitation Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site, southeastern Colorado. captured, radio-collared, tracked 92 (53 M: 39 F) March 1983 April 1989. Of these, 74 animals were residents 32 packs, plus 12 transients; 6 captured while making dispersal movements. collected 14,147 telemetry locations radioed spanning 7 years study. compared pack size density, survival rates, reproduction (litter size, litter sex ratio, % yearlings reproducing), home range between receiving (1987-88) versus no (1983-86) post-removal (1989), as well as, comparisons parameters removal non-removal areas within years. Changes estimates number removed, indicated was reduced 44-61% 51-75% area during 1987 1988, respectively. As expected, annual rates declined significantly area. Removals brought about drastic corresponding decrease density. However, both density rebounded pre-removal 8 months post-removal. Home did not change response exploitation. Coyotes appeared maintain their normal (i.e., pre-removal) ranges after removed neighboring territories. Following removals, shifted younger age structure more yearlings). Litter increased 2 beginning confounded by prey base. related rabbit abundance, rodent abundance less factor influencing reproductive effort. Accounting total abundance/coyote. With increasing mean doubled levels; females also abundance. ratio favored males exploitation, changing preponderance Reproduction 0 prior 20% following removal.