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Dining with a glutton: an intraguild interaction between scavenging wolverine (Gulo gulo) and lynx (Lynx canadensis).

Authors :
Jung, Thomas S.
Peers, Michael J. L.
Drummond, Ryan
Taylor, Shawn D.
Source :
Ecosphere; Oct2023, Vol. 14 Issue 10, p1-6, 6p
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Intraspecific interactions between mesocarnivores are not commonly observed and consequentially not well understood, particularly for species inhabiting wilderness regions. Using a remote camera, we captured interactions between a Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) and wolverine (Gulo gulo) scavenging on the remains of a bison (Bison bison). Over a 23‐min period representing nine photographic sequences (1–3 photographs per sequence), we observed (1) a wolverine approach the remains that were being fed on by a lynx, (2) the two animals feeding on the remains at the same time for about 19 min, (3) the wolverine chasing the lynx off of the carcass and, thereafter, (4) the wolverine excluding the lynx from the carcass. Our observation is of potential scientific value because it sheds light on behavioral interactions between these two species, particularly at a rich food source. Intraguild interactions between these species appear to include tolerance toward one another, as well as interference competition, with the wolverine being the dominant species. Our observation highlights the new information on interactions between mesocarnivores that are becoming illuminated with the use of remote cameras, revealing that these interactions may be more complex than once thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
21508925
Volume :
14
Issue :
10
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Ecosphere
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
173230741
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.4491