A comparison and critique of different scat‐analysis methods for determining carnivore diet

摘要: For terrestrial carnivores, scat analysis is the technique most often used to deter- mine diets. Various methods of interpreting scat-analysis data exist; however, little known about how choice method affects results. 2. We reviewed 50 papers assess range currently used. Furthermore, we a large set from cape fox Vulpes chama and black-backed jackal Canis mesomelas scats compare 11 methods. Techniques tested included five biomass calculation methods, four frequency occurrence one that estimated volume in scats, another mass food items scats. 3. Frequency were 94% papers, 50% they sole However, conclude fre- quency has least ecological significance results can be mis- leading. Although calculations probably provide best approximation true diets, only 23% suitable when models available for study species. 4. Analysis showed there significant differences among calculating percent diet composition niche breadth. Additionally, dietary overlap between species differed considerably (range R0 = 0.29-0.79). have impact on analysis, lead very different conclusions species' ecology. 5. The obtained by using model was developed same species, or closely related with similar spectrum. When no such available, either components should To document rare items, could also given.