Lecture 1

Mammalian Carnivores

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Why do we study them?

10% of all mammalian genera and 2% of all mammal biomass They fascinate us - e.g. symbols of strength and power (helmets of Greek gods) Fear, intrigue and curiosity - man eating species, affect livestock and game Domestication - canids Fur glands and musk = prized derivatives from MC's. (mink eyelashes/fur coats etc.)

Background Info

Carnivore = 'eater of flesh' Evolutionary origin from the MIACIDS (in the Miocene) Terrestrial Carnivores = Fissipeda, Aquatic = Pinnipeds 2 super families: Caniformia (racoons, mustelids, bears, fox) Feliformia (cats, civets, mongooses, hyenas)

Order Carnivora is characterised by

Great morphological, ecological and behavioural variation.Weight/size - Least weasel (30g) to the polar bear (circa 800kg)Reproductive output - 1 offspring every five to seven years (e.g. black bears), three litters of 8 offspring each litter (dwarf mongooses)Inhabit every habitat and vegetation zone - short grassland (meerkat) - oceanic water (sea otter)Home range varies - small in respect to body size e.g. Coati 0.55km squared to up to 2000km squared in African wild dogDiffering level of sociality - some entirely solitary (ermine) some live in packs (spotted hyena) some form monogamous pairs (golden jackal)Many interspecific differences ^ but also many INTRAspecific differences - e.g. Grey Wolf. Adult weight = 31-78kg Litter size = 1-11 Range size = 103 and 12,950km2 Adults = solitary or live in packs (up to 21 individuals)

Why do we study them?

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Pie de foto: : (Enhydra lutris)

Understand evolutionary adaptation at the interspecific level.Investigate natural selection at the intraspecific level.

Ecological Importance

Useful models for scientific research Apex predators  Can be important in maintaining ecological stability - Umbrella, flag and keystone species Ecotourism - charismatic mega fauna such as the big 5 have a vital role as flagship for overseas visitors and economic value to protect less high-profile species Lindsey et al 2009.

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Conservation Status

Many (not all) listed as Vulnerable or lower in IUCN scale.Threats:  Challenges of living with large carnivores Human population growth and knock on effects Climate change Habitat loss Hunting and trapping Hybridisation Disease

Conservation plans: Scientific research and action plans Compensation and community education Habitat creation and reserves Disease prevention/ non-native species removal Captive breeding and zoological establishments

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Pie de foto: : Cryptoprocta ferox (Fossa)