Face‐off: Novel depredation and nest defense behaviors between an invasive and a native predator in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem, Florida, USA. Issue 2 (19th February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Currylow, Andrea F.; McCollister, Matthew F.; Anderson, Gretchen E.; Josimovich, Jillian M.; Fitzgerald, Austin L.; Romagosa, Christina M.; Yackel Adams, Amy A.
• Is Part Of: Ecology and evolution. Volume 12:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-02-19
• Subjects: bobcat -- Burmese python -- intraguild predation -- nest depredation -- reptile–mammal interaction; Ecology -- Periodicals; Evolution -- Periodicals; 577.05
• DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8639
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2045-7758

Abstract

Abstract: We describe several photo‐documented novel interactions between intraguild predators in southern Florida—the native bobcat ( Lynx rufus ) and the invasive Burmese python ( Python bivittatus ). Over several days we documented a bobcat's depredation of an unguarded python nest and subsequent python nest defense behavior following the return of both animals to the nest. This is the first documentation of any animal in Florida preying on python eggs, and the first evidence or description of such antagonistic interactions at a python nest. Abstract : We describe several photo‐documented novel interactions between intraguild predators in southern Florida—the native bobcat ( Lynx rufus ) and the invasive Burmese python ( Python bivittatus ). Over several days, we documented a bobcat's depredation of an unguarded python nest and subsequent python nest defense behavior following the return of both animals to the nest. This is the first documentation of any animal in Florida preying on python eggs, and the first evidence or description of such antagonistic interactions at a python nest.