The classic literature on predation dealt almost exclusively with solitary predators and their prey. Going back to Lotka-Volterra and optimal foraging theory, the theory about predation, including predator-prey population dynamics, was developed for solitary species. Various consequences of sociality for predators have been considered only recently. Similarly, while it was long recognized that prey species can benefit from living in groups, research on the adaptive value of sociality for prey species mostly emerged in the 1970s. The main theme of this book is the various ways that predators and prey may benefit from living in groups. The first part focusses on predators and explores how group membership influences predation success rate, from searching to subduing prey. The second part focusses on how prey in groups can detect and escape predators. The final section explores group size and composition and how individuals respond over evolutionary times to the challenges posed by chasing or being chased by animals in groups. This book will help the reader understand current issues in social predation theory and provide a synthesis of the literature across a broad range of animal taxa. Includes the whole taxonomical range rather than limiting it to a select few Features in-depth analysis that allows a better understanding of many subtleties surrounding the issues related to social predation Presents both models and empirical results while covering the extensive predator and prey literature Contains extensive illustrations and separate boxes that cover more technical features, i.e., to present models and review results

Predation is an ecological factor of almost universal importance for the biol ogist who aims at an understanding of the habits and structures of animals. Despite its pervasive nature opinions differ as to what predation really is. So far it has been defined only in negative terms; it is thought not to be par asitism, the other great process by which one organism harms another, nor filter-feeding, carrion-eating, or browsing. Accordingly, one could define predation as a process by which an animal spends some effort to locate a live prey and, in addition, spends another effort to mutilate or kill it. Ac cording to this usage of the word a nudibranch, for example, that feeds on hydroids would be a predator inasmuch as it needs some time to locate col onies of its prey which, after being located, scarcely demand more than eating, which differs little from browsing. From the definition just proposed consumption of the prey following its capture has been intentionally omit ted. Indeed, an animal may be disposed of without being eaten. Hence the biological significance of predation may be more than to maintain nutrition al homeostasis. In fact, predation may have something in common with the more direct forms of competition, a facet that will be only cursorily touched upon in this book.

Predation, one of the most dramatic interactions in animals' lives, has long fascinated ecologists. This volume presents carnivores, raptors and their prey in the complicated net of interrelationships, and shows them against the background of their biotic and abiotic settings. It is based on long-term research conducted in the best preserved woodland of Europe's temperate zone. The role of predation, whether limiting or regulating prey (ungulate, rodent, shrew, bird, and amphibian) populations, is quantified and compared to parts played by other factors: climate, food resources for prey, and availability of other potential resources for predators.

THE NEUROETHOLOGY OF PREDATION AND ESCAPE To eat and not get eaten is key to animal survival, and the arms race between predators and prey has driven the evolution of many rapid and spectacular behaviours. This book explores the neural mechanisms controlling predation and escape, where specialisations in afferent pathways, central circuits, motor control and biomechanics can be traced through to natural animal behaviour. Each chapter provides an integrated and comparative review of case studies in neuroethology. Ranging from the classic studies on bat biosonar and insect counter-measures, through to fish-eating snails armed with powerful neurotoxins, the book covers a diverse and fascinating range of adaptations. Common principles of biological design and organization are highlighted throughout the text. The book is aimed at several audiences: for lecturers and students. This synthesis will help to underpin the curriculum in neuroscience and behavioural biology, especially for courses focusing on neuroethology for postgraduate students. The sections devoted to your area of specialism will give a flying start to your research reading, while the other chapters offer breadth and insights from comparative studies for academic researchers. The book will provide a valuable resource and an enjoyable read Above all, we hope this book will inspire the next generation of neuroethologists.

Do you wish your dog would listen to you on walks, rather than running after squirrels? Tired of getting left in the dust if a cat shows up nearby? Concerned that your dog's prey drive is coming between the two of you? Conventional training protocols stifle your dog's natural predatory behaviours through punishing or constantly forcing them to return. These restrictive protocols work against your dog's nature and against what they want most: to go for a hunt!Predation is an inner need that makes your dog happy. Suppressing those natural urges is like putting an airtight lid on a boiling pot. Eventually, that pressure needs to escape, and without a proper outlet, it's probably going to get messy. Wouldn't you rather use your dog's predation motivation to improve your training and even grow your relationship with your dog? Predation Substitute Training (PST) is a motivation-based and need-oriented training program, designed to stop uncontrolled predatory chasing and to provide safe outlets for your dog's natural drive. Instead of making discipline the nagging factor that spoils the fun, this training system will help you grow as a team and go hunting together!In this training program, you'll learn: -What is predation?-Why does your dog love to hunt?-Why is predatory behaviour so hard to interrupt?To stop your dog's predatory chasing and see real-life results, just follow the step-by-step instructions: -Prevention: Structure your walks to set your dog up for success-Predation Substitute Tools: Help your dog control their urge to chase in a healthy way. -Predation Substitute Games: Discover new ways to express predatory energy in a safe, controlled environment-Safety net: Build a strong "emergency cue" to immediately interrupt predatory chasing.Is hunting your dog's favourite hobby? Don't spoil the fun - go hunting together!About the Author: Simone Mueller is a certified dog trainer, dog behaviourist (ATN.AG), and owner of the Training4Paws Dog School near Heidelberg, Germany. Simone is proud to be an Associate Trainer at the Scotland-based Lothlorien Dog Training Club (AT-LDTC) and a member of both the Pet Professional Guild (PPG) and the Pet Dog Trainers of Europe (PDTE).Learn more at Training4Paws.de/english

"Long and sympathetic watching, radio tracking, chemical analysis are all part of this naturalist's ingenious and peaceable arsenal of inquiry into the lives of porcupines."--Scientific American