Spatial and temporal overlaps of top predators: Dhole, tiger and leopard, and their potential preys in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand

A study in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand, reveals that tigers and leopards exhibit the highest spatial overlap among top predators, with dholes also showing significant overlap with leopards but not tigers. Unlike the initial hypothesis, no significant temporal overlap was found between any of these predator pairs, suggesting complex interactions beyond simple spatial coexistence. The research used camera traps to analyze the abundance and overlap patterns of dholes (Cuon alpinus), tigers (Panthera tigris), leopards (Panthera pardus), and their potential prey, including sambar deer, gaur, and wild boar. Key findings underscore the importance of protecting the sanctuary from external wildfires and managing herbivore food resources to sustain predator-prey dynamics in this UNESCO-listed ecosystem.

Charaspet, K., Sukmasuang, R.-, KHOEWSREE, ์Noraset, Pla-ard, M., Paansri, P., Keawdee, B., Chanachai, Y., & BHUMPAKPHAN, N. (2021). Spatial and temporal overlaps of top predators: Dhole, tiger and leopard, and their potential preys in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity, 22(2). https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d220209