Assessing the Effect of Predator Control on Black‐Footed Cat Survival in Central South Africa

• DOI: 10.1111/aje.13316
• Publication Date: 2024-08-20T18:29:35Z
• Authors: Sandra Lai; Chloé Warret Rodr...; Holly O'Donnell; Martina Küsters; Jason Herrick; Arne Lawrenz; Nadine Lamberski; Michelle Schroeder; Beryl Wilson; Alexander Sliwa
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 01 natural sciences

ABSTRACT The black‐footed cat, a small felid endemic to southern Africa, is particularly vulnerable killing by larger carnivores while also being prone developing renal diseases. Here, we investigated the effect of predator control on cat populations comparing adult annual survival between two sites, nature reserve with little management and sheep game farm where jackals caracals were lethally controlled. Although relatively low, rates similar for both suggesting that intraguild did not have an additive mortality. Disease was however prevalent weakened individuals might reduced ability evade predators.