Direct observations of predation on primates are rare, yet predation is hypothesized as a significant force in primate evolution. Estimates of present day predation rates are needed to solve this problem. Lemurs appear to face both terrestrial and aerial predators in most of their natural habitats, thus they offer an excellent system in which to study the effects of multiple predators on antipredator strategies and population dynamics. This study has practical conservation importance as research suggests that the removal or introduction of predators may affect both the demography and behavior of prey species. The following hypotheses will be addressed.
Lemurs have specific antipredation tactics against the large diurnal raptors.
There is a trade-off in antipredator behaviors of lemurs exposed to a multiple predator system leading to enhancement or reduction of risk. Raptor prey profiles will be constructed and correlated with demographic patterns of both predator and prey to quantify the rate and risk of raptor predation on lemurs. The behavioral and demographic response of lemurs exposed to a multiple predator community will be examined both experimentally and theoretically. Studies will be conducted continuously over a two year period in order to examine temporal variation in the predator-prey interactions of raptors and lemurs in Ranomafana National Park. Experimental and observational data from this study will also be used to construct a general model for the effects of a multiple predator community on social prey organisms.