When a generalist becomes a specialist: patterns of red fox predation on roe deer fawns under contrasting conditions

摘要: The red fox (Vulpes vulpes (L., 1758)) functional response to roe deer (Capreolus capreolus 1758) fawn density was investigated in two Norwegian study areas characterized by a 26-fold difference prey and contrast- ing habitat characteristics. In the southern area, fragmented agricultural landscape high den- sity, consumption rates were closer specialist end specialist-generalist continuum of feeding habits. Conversely, northern dominated boreal forest with low density, foxes displayed type-III typical archetypal generalist predators. We suggest that differences predators' habits reflect profitability, which much higher area owing openness both favour hunting fawns. Different responses produced dif- ferent predation (25% for 13% area) different temporal patterns (highest risk fawns born at beginning or birth season). Even though understanding pred- ator's is crucial interpreting patterns, remains be understood regarding its plasticity ecological settings. fawn-fox system, this might key factor addressing unsolved questions adaptive value reproductive synchrony as an antipredator strategy. Given flexibility resulting impacts respect synchrony, we repro- ductive evolved primarily seasonality not Finally, our re- sults contribute debate on additive compensatory nature neonatal predation. Resume´ : Nous etudions la reponse fonctionnelle du renard roux au chevreuil d'Europe (Cap-