BETA-FOR_SP9_Predation_2022-2025

one-time sampling + rapid assessment 2023 - 2025 ################ This dataset contains predation data on artificial caterpillars collected between 2022 and 2025. In 2022, sampling was conducted in 90 patches within the University Forest and 90 patches in the Bavarian Forest. In 2023, 54 patches located in Saarland, Hunsrück, and Lübeck were sampled, along with the rapid assessment sites, which continued to be sampled through 2025. In each patch, 21 artificial caterpillars were installed following a standardized protocol. Seven trees were selected per patch, as close as possible to the patch center. In patches with forest gaps, trees from the first tree line were chosen. Selected trees had to have a branch with leaves at a height of approximately 1.70 m. Three caterpillars were placed on each tree, using non-toxic glue (PRITT Bastelkleber, (SKU/IDH)2463962) to attach them to the bark: one on the ground, one on the stem at a height of 0.5 to 1 m, and one on a branch at a height of 1.50 to 2 m. The caterpillars were exposed for one week at the end of June, when weather conditions were mostly dry and not too windy. Due to unfavorable weather conditions in June 2025, the experiment at the rapid assessment sites in the Bavarian Forest and Passau was repeated in July 2025. However, this experiment includes more dropped caterpillars than the June 2025 sampling. After exposure, bite marks were analyzed in the lab using a custom bite guide developed by Murat Demirok, as well as existing references, including Low et al. (2014) and the Guide to Bite Marks by Tvardikova & Novotny (2012). Predator groups were recorded as present or absent (0/1) for each caterpillar. If multiple predators were identified, they were listed in separate columns for the same caterpillar. The artificial caterpillars were made from green, non-toxic plasticine (Plastilin-Knete Noris® 8421, STAEDTLER). They were shaped with a diameter of 5 mm and a length of 25 mm, with rounded edges, reaching a maximum length of approximately 30 mm. ################ We greatly acknowledge the help of: Jens Schlüter, Camilla Haider, David Ritz, Adèle Kieffer, Jorge Torres, Kim Zimmermann, Hans Bahr, Noelle Demuth, Jean-Léonard Stör, Interns of the Bavarian Forest Nationalpark and all other assistants.