Contrasting patterns of risk from human and non-human predators shape temporal activity of prey

Spatiotemporal variation in predation risk arises from interactions between landscape heterogeneity, predator densities, and predator hunting mode, generating landscapes of fear for prey species that can have important effects on prey behaviour and ecosystem dynamics.

As widespread apex predators, humans present a significant source of risk for hunted animal populations. Spatiotemporal patterns of risk from hunters can be overlapping or contrast with patterns of risk from other predators. Human infrastructure can also reshape spatial patterns of risk by facilitating or impeding hunter or predator movement, or deterring predators that are themselves wary of humans.

We examined how anthropogenic and natural landscape features interact with hunting modes of rifle hunters and mountain lions (Puma concolor) to generate patterns of spatiotemporal risk for their primary prey. We explored the implications of human-modified landscapes of fear for Columbian black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hem...