Anthropogenic disturbance induces opposing population trends in spotted hyenas and African lions

摘要: Large carnivore populations are declining worldwide due to direct and indirect conflicts with humans. Protected areas critical for conserving large carnivores, but increasing human-wildlife conflict, tourism, human population growth near these sanctuaries may have negative effects on the carnivores within sanctuary borders. Our goals were investigate how anthropogenic disturbance along edge of Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya, influences demography space-use two species that engage in intense interspecific competition. Here we document, one disturbed region a rapid increase size predator, spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), striking concurrent decline numbers another, African lion (Panthera leo). Anthropogenic disturbances negatively affected populations, decreasing appear positive effect indicated here by an juvenile survivorship. We also saw number livestock consumed hyenas. results suggest activity Reserve boundaries be effecting trophic cascade inside itself. These indicate both top-down bottom-up processes causing shift community, major disruption guild structure, most spectacular protected Africa.