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1 March 2010 Effect of Direct and Indirect Cues of Predation Risk on the Foraging Behavior of the White-Footed Mouse (Peromyscus leucopus)
Benjamin G. Fanson
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Abstract

Understanding predator-prey dynamics requires an understanding of how prey assess predation risk. This study tested the effect of microhabitat, moon stages, and mammalian predator urines (Vulpes vulpes [Red Fox], Mustela vison [Mink], and Procyon lotor [Raccoon]) on the degree of predation risk perceived by Peromyscus leucopus (White-footed Mouse). Giving-up densities from artificial food patches were used to quantify perceived predation risk. White-footed Mice exhibited a strong preference for cover microhabitat and for the new moon stage. However, the mice did not significantly alter their foraging behavior in response to the predator urines compared to a water control. Additionally, mice foraged less on colder nights. The results suggest that mammalian predator urines may not provide reliable information on actual predation risk for the White-footed Mice and that the mice extensively use indirect cues to assess predation risk.

Benjamin G. Fanson "Effect of Direct and Indirect Cues of Predation Risk on the Foraging Behavior of the White-Footed Mouse (Peromyscus leucopus)," Northeastern Naturalist 17(1), 19-28, (1 March 2010). https://doi.org/10.1656/045.017.0102
Published: 1 March 2010
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