Response of Moose Hunters to Predation following Wolf Return in Sweden

摘要: BackgroundPredation and hunter harvest constitute the main mortality factors affecting size dynamics of many exploited populations. The re-colonization by wolves (Canis lupus) Scandinavian Peninsula may therefore substantially reduce moose (Alces alces), prey wolves.Methodology/Principal findingsWe examined possible effects wolf presence on in areas where we had data before after establishment (n = 25), additional that been continuously exposed to predation during at least ten years 43). There was a general reduction total number harvested 31,827) year study period all irrespective or not. However, stronger within territories compared control without wolves. larger small (500-800 km(2)) large (1,200-1,800 territories. In with newly established management appeared be adaptive regard both managers (hunting quotas) hunters (actual harvest). these an instant over-compensated estimated killed annually composition hunted animals changed towards lower proportion adult females.Conclusions/SignificanceWe show result almost functional response another predator-humans-that reduced potential for direct numerical effect density wolves' prey, moose. Because most worlds' habitat will available future colonization predators are likely strongly influenced humans, human behavioural responses key trait govern impact their prey.