Procedures for Evaluating Predation Next Page Predator Guide Procedures for Evaluating Predation on Livestock and Wildlife Dale A. Wade and James E. Bowns Carnivore predation on other species is a natural event that occurs throughout their range. In addition to livestock, native and exotic wildlife are lost to predators on both public and private lands, including game ranches and preserves. In determining the cause of these losses, the general criteria used to evaluate predation on livestock may be applied to other species. Evidence of predation is normally present where large animals are killed but is frequently absent with small animals which may simply disappear without a trace.
Predators often scavenge animals dead of other causes and livestock can disappear in other ways.
Animal losses are easiest to confirm and evaluate if examination is conducted soon after losses occur. Examination of wounded animals and fresh kills is relatively simple. Carcass decomposition, which is rapid during warm weather, obliterates evidence. Scavenging birds and mammals also can eliminate evidence, frequently in a few hours. When the cause of livestock loss cannot be readily determined, assistance may be necessary.