Body size and predatory performance in wolves: is bigger better?

摘要: Summary 1. Large body size hinders locomotor performance in ways that may lead to trade-offs predator foraging ability limit the net predatory benefit of larger size. For example, size-related improvements handling prey come at expense pursuing and thus negate any enhancement overall due increasing 2. This hypothesis was tested with longitudinal data from repeated observations 94 individually known wolves ( Canis lupus ) hunting elk Cervus elaphus Yellowstone National Park, USA. Wolf estimated an based sex-specific growth model derived mass measurements 304 wolves. 3. Larger granted individual a advantage despite substantial variation its effect on different tasks; improved strength-related task (grappling subduing elk) but failed improve locomotor-related (selecting group) for > 39 kg. 4. Sexual dimorphism wolf also explained why males outperformed females each three tasks considered (attacking, selecting, killing). 5. These findings support generalization bigger predators are better hunters, they indicate ultimately limits elements behaviour require superior performance. We argue this could potentially narrow dietary niche carnivores as well evolution if substantially more difficult pursue than handle.