Original Research
Multivariate analysis of the hunting tactics of Kalahari leopards
J. du P. Bothma, N. van Rooyen, E.A.N. le Riche
Koedoe - African Protected Area Conservation and Science; Vol 40, No 1 (1997), 41-56. doi: 10.4102/koedoe.v40i1.262
Submitted: 01 August 1997
Published: 01 August 1997
Abstract
The hunting tactics of male and female leopards in the southern Kalahari were analysed for prey-specific patterns. The field study was based on tracking leopard spoor in the sandy substrate of the Kalahari. Visual profiles for each type of prey were compiled for various facets of hunting. Data sets were analysed further, using Correspondence Analysis and Detrended Correspondence Analysis. The results indicate that multivariate analysis can be used to demonstrate prey-specific hunting tactics in Kalahari leopards. In using a scarce prey base, Kalahari leopards seem to be number maximisers as they are unselective of prey type, age or sex. The presence of prey-specific hunting tactics may indicate a move along a continuum towards some degree of energy maximisation.
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Author affiliations
J. du P. Bothma, University of Pretoria, South Africa
N. van Rooyen, University of Pretoria, South Africa
E.A.N. le Riche, University of Pretoria, South Africa Metrics
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