Scavenging patterns of generalist predators in forested areas: The potential implications of increase in carrion availability on a threatened capercaillie population

The increases in ungulate populations and hunting bags throughout Europe North America have resulted higher carcass numbers available for mesocarnivore species temperate boreal forests. increase food resources can sustain denser predator populations, potentially affecting prey such as the threatened western capercaillie Tetrao urogallus. We investigated population trends recent decades carrion use by facultative scavengers areas of Pyrenees occupied to assess potential effects on predation nests adult birds, its trend. found a significant number ungulates harvested during period sharp decline. Carrion was provided experimentally forested showing that remains were mainly consumed red fox Vulpes vulpes, followed wild boar Sus scrofa marten (Martes sp.). Season (cold or warm) most important factor determining scavenging activity species. Main predators adults martens fox, with no boar. Our data show main are same consume carrion, especially winter, plentiful could maintain these species, increasing pressure population. This study shows managing arising from distribution is necessary management action reduce biomass so impact mesocarnivores conservation.