Prey-Predator Dynamics of Apex Carnivores at Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, India

Abstract

Large carnivores are vital regulators of forest ecosystems, influencing prey populations and maintaining ecological balance through top-down control. In India, the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve (PKTR), situated in the Western Ghats, harbours a rich assemblage of apex predators, including Tiger, leopard, and dhole, alongside a diverse ungulate prey base such as sambar, spotted deer, and wild boar. Despite their ecological importance, limited experimental data exist on predator-prey dynamics in PKTR. In this study, we investigated diet composition and prey selection of large carnivores within PKTR through the field study by examining the scat and direct sightings. The findings suggest that sambar and chital constitute the primary prey biomass. Also, the study showed differences in the prey preference with seasons. The results highlight the critical role of apex carnivores in regulating ungulate populations and maintaining trophic stability.