Hall, L. S., Kasparian, M. A., Van Vuren, D., & Kelt, D. A. (2000). Spatial organization and habitat use of feral cats (Felis catus L.) in Mediterranean California. Mammalia, 64(1), 19-28.
We report on a preliminary study of the spatial organization, habitat use, and diet of feral cants (Felis catus) in a riparian reserve in Central California, to assess potential impacts of this exotic predator on native species. Home ranges of adult cats averaged 31,7 ha and did not differ significantly by sex and season. Home ranges also showed little overlap, suggesting a territorial social system. Cats strongly preferred riparian habitats and foraged primarily on native species of small mammals, especially California voles (Microtus californicus) and Botta's pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae), although birds, insects, and exotic rodents were also eaten. The preference for riparian habitats and native preys suggests that impacts on biodiversity by feral cats may be great, especially in Mediterranean climates where riparian communities already are heavily impacted by urbanisation and agriculture.
We report on a preliminary study of the spatial organization, habitat use, and diet of feral cants (Felis catus) in a riparian reserve in Central California, to assess potential impacts of this exotic predator on native species. Home ranges of adult cats averaged 31,7 ha and did not differ significantly by sex and season. Home ranges also showed little overlap, suggesting a territorial social system. Cats strongly preferred riparian habitats and foraged primarily on native species of small mammals, especially California voles (Microtus californicus) and Botta's pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae), although birds, insects, and exotic rodents were also eaten. The preference for riparian habitats and native preys suggests that impacts on biodiversity by feral cats may be great, especially in Mediterranean climates where riparian communities already are heavily impacted by urbanisation and agriculture.
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