Switch or perish? Prey–predator interactions in a Mediterranean area

Abstract

AbstractPredator–prey relationships can influence community processes, and a rich prey spectrum is important to favour carnivore conservation, as well as to buffer single prey towards intensive predation. Antipredator behavioural responses can occur and can be dynamic in time and space, which may generate counter‐responses in predators. However, data are scarce on their role in modulating carnivore diet and behaviour. Data are especially needed for European landscapes that are largely anthropized and have been recently recolonized by large carnivores. In a protected area in central Italy recently recolonized by the wolf and hosting a rich community of wild ungulates, we studied the interactions between this predator and three ungulate species. At the initial stage of wolf recovery, the fallow deer and the wild boar were the main prey, while the roe deer was a minor food item. Through camera‐trapping and predator food habits, we assessed temporal changes in wolf–prey relationships throughout 5 years (2017–2022). Wolf detection rates were spatially associated with those of fallow deer and wild boar, but shrub cover was positively related to predator and negatively to prey, suggesting possible prey avoidance of sites with lower visibility and greater predation risk. Throughout the years, the fallow deer increased its diurnal activity, with a decreasing temporal overlap with the predator. The wolf showed crepuscular/nocturnal activity, with an increased synchronization with the wild boar, which replaced the fallow deer as first prey. No support for major spatiotemporal responses was reported for wild boar and roe deer. With the ongoing recovery of carnivores across Europe, conservation priorities may emphasize the need to maintain an efficient ecological role of predators. Our results support the role of antipredator responses in modulating predator behaviour and diet and emphasize the importance of a diverse spectrum of wild prey to ensure the conservation of the ecological role of carnivores.