Dietary composition and overlap among small- and medium-sized carnivores in Flanders, Belgium

There are increasing concerns about the status and population trends
carnivores around the world. Carnivores play an important role in
terrestrial ecosystems, as their interactions influence the composition
and function of ecological communities. In the context of global change,
it is essential to understand the interactions and resource use of
carnivores. In this study, we explore the dietary ecology of six small-
and medium-sized carnivores (red fox, European badger, European polecat,
stoat, stone marten and least weasel) to determine their main food
resources and the degree of food overlap in Flanders, Belgium. The studied
species differed in their food consumption pattern with some being
generalist and some more specialist. The dietary composition among the
species was clearly different, although certain species showed
considerable overlap for different food types. We also conclude that the
differences and overlap in dietary habits among the species were
consistent across seasons. Understanding these relationships among
species’ populations and their dietary ecology is essential for
biodiversity conservation and nature management.