Human disturbance alters the foraging and spatiotemporal activity of a large carnivore.

ABSTRACT: Carnivore recovery is often promoted to restore ecosystem functioning. However, human-disturbed landscapes can alter the behavior and role of returning carnivores. To evaluate how different dimensions of a carnivore niche are affected across a gradient of human disturbance, we studied 83 pumas (Puma concolor) at seven populations in North and South America. We hypothesized that pumas inhabiting sites with high human disturbance would modify their niche by reducing space use, becoming more nocturnal and diversifying their diets. We quantified how landscape features affected puma home ranges, movement paths, diel activity, and step selection. Using stable isotopes, we quantified individual diet and dietary specialization, and population dietary niche width. Pumas decreased their movement rat

SUBMITTER: Barcelo G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12202680 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature