Data from: Asymmetrical predation intensity produces divergent antipredator behaviors in primary and secondary prey

It is widely recognized that predators can influence prey through both
direct consumption and by inducing costly antipredator behaviors, the
latter of which can produce nonconsumptive effects that cascade through
trophic systems. Yet, determining how particular prey manage risk in
natural settings remains challenging as empirical studies
disproportionately focus on single predator-prey dyads. Here, we contrast
foraging strategies within the context of a primary and secondary prey to
explore how antipredator behaviors emerge as a product of predation
intensity as well as the setting in which an encounter takes place. We
studied the effects of spotted owls (Strix occidentalis) on two species
experiencing asymmetrical risk: dusky-footed woodrats (Neotoma fuscipes;
primary prey) and deer mice (Peromyscus spp.; alternative prey). Woodrats
are most abundant within young forest, but predominantly captured by owls
foraging within mature forest; in contrast, deer mice occur in high
densities across forest types and seral stages and are consumed at lower
per-capita rates overall. We deployed experimental foraging patches within
areas of high and low spotted owl activity, created artificial risky and
safe refuge treatments, and monitored behavior throughout the entirety of
prey foraging bouts. Woodrats were more vigilant and foraged less within
mature forest and at riskier patches, although the effect of refuge
treatment was contingent upon forest type. In contrast, deer mice only
demonstrated consistent behavioral responses to riskier refuge treatments;
forest type had little effect on perceived risk or the relative importance
of refuge treatment. Thus, habitat can interact with predator activity to
structure antipredator responses differently for primary versus secondary
prey. Our findings show that asymmetrical predation can modulate both the
magnitude of perceived risk and the strategies used to manage it, thus
highlighting an important and understudied contingency in risk effects
research. Evaluating the direct and indirect effects of predation through
the paradigm of primary and secondary prey may improve our understanding
of how nonconsumptive effects can extend to population- and
community-level responses.