Prey species and prey selection of dholes at three different sites in Thailand

Dholes in Thailand predominantly prey on even-toed ungulates, accounting for 76.78–90.50% of their biomass consumption across three study sites: Khao Yai National Park, Salak Pra, and Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries. The research, conducted from 2013 to 2020, analyzed dhole scats alongside camera trap data to assess prey selection and dietary diversity. While dietary diversity was consistent across sites, the Niche breadth index revealed higher prey specialization in Huai Kha Khaeng and Khao Yai compared to Salak Pra. Dholes also showed increased consumption of viverrids and Malayan porcupines where large carnivores were present. The study underscores the critical role of ungulate conservation in sustaining dhole populations, emphasizing the need for habitat improvements like grassland restoration, water source enhancement, and controlled prey releases to support biodiversity in these UNESCO-listed sanctuaries.

CHARASPET, K., Sukmasuang, R.-, KHOEWSREE, N., PLA-ARD, M., & CHANACHAI, Y. (2020). Prey species and prey selection of dholes at three different sites in Thailand. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity, 21(11). https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d211128