An interspecific foraging association with polar bears increases foraging opportunities for avian predators in a declining Arctic seabird colony

Ecology and Evolution, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 14(3)

Published: March 1, 2024

Abstract Interspecific foraging associations (IFAs) are biological interactions where two or more species forage in association with each other. Climate‐induced reductions Arctic sea ice have increased polar bear ( Ursus maritimus ) seabird colonies, which creates opportunities for avian predators. We used drone video of bears within a common eider Somateria mollissima colony on East Bay Island (Nunavut, Canada) 2017 to investigate herring gull Larus argentatus bears. recorded nest visitation by gulls following n = 193 flushing events from nests during incubation. The probability visiting higher number present (β 0.14 ± 0.03 [SE], p < .001) and previously visited 1.14 0.49 .02). In our model examining the consuming eggs nests, we failed detect statistically significant effects 0.09 0.05 .07) −0.92 0.71 .19). Gulls preferred visit behind (χ 2 18, df 1, .0001), indicating risk averse presence Our study provides novel insights an IFA, evidence that capitalize made available due disturbance associated bears, as eiders disturbed off their allow easier access eggs. suggest IFA between is parasitic, terrestrial resources would eventually been consumed This finding has implications estimating energetic contribution bird summer diets total clutches consume may be reduced

Language: Английский

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Following the bear: The interspecific foraging associations between vertebrate predators of cicada nymphs

Food Webs, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 40, P. e00354 - e00354

Published: July 31, 2024

Language: Английский

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