Spatial and temporal patterns of predator-prey interactions in a large mammal community in eastern Washington

Abstract

Non-consumptive predator-prey interactions (NCEs) take numerous forms and occur over a broad range of spatial and temporal scales. In this dissertation, I assessed the spatial and temporal patterns of NCEs as they arose across the human-dominated landscape of eastern Washington, USA. Using data collected by myself and collaborators with the Washington Predator-Prey Project, I 1) evaluated the influence of sampling design on the inferences we draw about wildlife populations, particularly when monitoring predators and prey, 2) assessed how predator hunting mode influenced predator-prey movements, 3) considered the interactive effects of background and immediate levels of predation risk on the temporal activity of prey, and 4) evaluated the influence of livestock grazing and hunting on predator-prey co-occurrence and temporal overlap. Together, these studies demonstrate the complex nature of NCEs in a multi-predator, multi-prey system, particularly when they occur across mixed-use landscapes. Results from this research can advance our general understanding of multi-species interactions, predator-prey dynamics, and inform wildlife monitoring and conservation decisions.