Exposure to predators reduce immune response in birds

Navarro, C., De Lope, F., Marzal, A., & Møller, A. P. (2004). Predation risk, host immune response, and parasitism. Behavioral Ecology, 15(4), 629-635.

Predation risk may affect the allocation priorities of limiting resources by potential prey. Investment in immune function should receive reduced priority, when hosts are exposed to predators because of the costs of immune function. We tested this hypothesis by randomly exposing adult house sparrows, Passer domesticus, to either a cat, Felis catus, or a rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, for 6 h while assessing their ability to raise a T-cell–mediated immune response to a challenge with phytohemagglutinin. Sparrows exposed to a cat had a significant reduction of, on average, 18% and 36% in T-cell response in two different experiments compared with sparrows that were exposed to a rabbit. In a field experiment with a barn owl, Tyto alba, or a rock dove, Columba livia, placed next to a nest-box during laying, we found a mean reduction in T-cell–mediated immune response of 20%. In males, the reduction in cell-mediated immune response owing to cat exposure increased with increasing size of the badge, which is a secondary sexual character, but only during the breeding season. In a third experiment, house sparrows were either exposed to a barn own, T. alba, or a rock dove, C. livia, and development of malarial infections was recorded during the following 6 weeks. Individual sparrows exposed to a predator had a higher prevalence and intensity of Haemoproteus malarial infection than did control individuals. Therefore, exposure to predators reduced their ability of hosts to cope with parasitism mediated through effects on immune function.

Trophic overlap between wolves and free-ranging wolf× dog hybrids

Bassi, E., Canu, A., Firmo, I., Mattioli, L., Scandura, M., & Apollonio, M. (2017). Trophic overlap between wolves and free-ranging wolf× dog hybrids in the Apennine Mountains, Italy. Global Ecology and Conservation, 9, 39-49.

Hybridization between wolves (Canis lupus) and domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) can represent a threat to wild populations via genetic introgression and ecological competition. Therefore understanding the ecological role of hybrids may be crucial for developing appropriate conservation strategies.

The Italian wolf population has a peculiar genetic composition due to a long-lasting geographic isolation. Nowadays, however, its genetic integrity is threatened by the spread of canine genes as a result of the hybridization with stray dogs in the wild.

The aim of the present study was to gain insights into the ecological role of free-ranging wolf–dog hybrids by investigating their winter food habits in comparison with wolves in a mountain area of Central Italy. Levels of genetic introgression from the dogs were assessed in two adjacent areas occupied by up to five different packs by analyzing non-invasive samples and carcasses collected therein with a set of uniparental and bi-parental molecular markers.

The obtained results enabled us to classify the two areas as ‘hybrid’ and ‘wolf’ areas based on their level of genetic introgression.

Trophic niche and similarity/dissimilarity analyses did not detect significant difference in the diet between the two areas: in both of them, wild boar was the main prey, followed by roe deer. Furthermore, the same age/body mass classes of the two ungulates were selected by wolves and hybrids. Our findings confirmed wolf–dog hybrids as potential competitors for wolves. Further studies on other aspects of their biology and ecology are recommended in order to better estimate the impact of hybridization on natural wolf populations.

Preliminary data on the distribution of free-ranging dogs in a Bulgarian National Park

Doykin, N., Popova, E., Zlatanov, V., Petrov, P., & Zlatanova, D. 2016. Preliminary data on the distribution of free-ranging dogs (Canis familiaris L.) in NP Vitosha, Bulgaria. Annuaire de l’Université de Sofia “St. Kliment Ohridski” Faculte de Biologie 2016, volume 101, livre 4, pp. 11-22. Youth Scientific Conference “Kliment’s Days”, Sofia 2015

Free-ranging dogs often leave the urbanized areas and stray into nearby mountainous habitats, even entering protected areas. This causes problems for the wildlife due to either direct predation or disturbance. Our camera trap survey (July 2013 - November 2014) in NP Vitosha, Bulgaria resulted in a total of 199 independent registrations of free-ranging dogs in 81 locations. In this preliminary study, we present the distribution, habitat selection, and distance from settlements and activity of free ranging dogs in Vitosha NP. The free-ranging dogs in Vitosha are predominantly diurnal, and show preference towards coniferous and mixed forests, mostly closed. Their distribution and activity patterns are influenced by human presence, which is due to the fact that they at least partially rely on human-sourced food. Some data for observations of wild animals influenced by dogs is also discussed. 

Ecological impact of free-ranging dogs in Poland

Wierzbowska, I. A., Hędrzak, M., Popczyk, B., Okarma, H., & Crooks, K. R. (2016). Predation of wildlife by free-ranging domestic dogs in Polish hunting grounds and potential competition with the grey wolf. Biological Conservation, 201, 1-9.

Although the domestic dog (Canis familiaris) is a ubiquitous exotic predator that can detrimentally affect natural environments, studies on their ecological impact are relatively scarce, particularly at a national scale. We exploited data derived from Polish Hunting Association reports to provide a national evaluation of rural free-ranging dogs in Poland. Our results demonstrate that free-ranging dogs are widespread and abundant, frequently killing wildlife and livestock in Poland and likely exerting intraguild competition with native carnivores such as grey wolves (Canis lupus). On average, hunting club records estimate that over 138,000 rural free-ranging dogs occurred annually in hunting grounds. In addition, nearly 3000 free-ranging greyhounds and their mixed breeds occurred annually on hunting grounds, although greyhound hunting has been banned in Poland and they are legally required to be restrained within fencing. On average, over 33,000 wild animals and 280 livestock were killed by free-ranging dogs on Polish hunting grounds annually. The number of both wild animals and livestock killed by dogs were strongly and positively correlated with the numbers of rural free-ranging dogs recorded on hunting grounds, reflective of their predation pressure. Also, the number of wild animals killed by dogs was positively correlated with estimates of population sizes and harvest levels of wildlife, reflective of prey availability. Dog predation, in conjunction with harvest by humans, may cause unsustainable off-take rates of some game species. Grey wolves, documented within 39 of the 49 Hunting Districts, ate similar prey as dogs, including ungulates and livestock, and killed dogs on hunting grounds, suggesting both resource and interference competition between these sympatric canids. This comprehensive analysis provides important information about the ecological impact of free-ranging dogs and recommendations for alternative legislative and management measures to control their impacts.

Archeozoology of dogs in fort-village complex at Vindolanda in northern England

Bennett, D., Campbell, G., & Timm, R. M. (2016). The dogs of Roman Vindolanda: Morphometric techniques in differentiating domestic and wild canids. Archaeofauna 25: 79-106

 The Roman-era fort-village complex at Vindolanda in northern England, occupied from about A.D. 50 to A.D. 415, has yielded extensive well-preserved remains of the domestic dog, Canis familiaris. Herein, utilizing a novel combination of biostatistical techniques to identify parameters that best differentiate canids, we test the hypothesis that the inhabitants of Vindolanda selectively bred dogs. We also differentiate dog remains from wolves and foxes, similarly-sized canids that occur throughout Eurasia. The Vindolanda dogs are less morphologically diverse than modern dogs but much more diverse than dogs of the British Neolithic and Iron Age. They are as morphologically diverse as dogs excavated from other Romano–British sites, and only slightly less diverse than the whole known population of Roman-era dogs sampled from across Europe and North Africa. Vindolanda dogs thus underwent greater directional selection than expected from natural environmental forces, suggesting that selective breeding rather than random panmixis maintained diversity. The Vindolanda dog sample will make an ideal subject for DNA analysis, since it contains dogs undergoing incipient diversification from dingo-like ancestors.

Bennett, D., & Timm, R. M. (2016). The dogs of Roman Vindolanda, Part II: Time-stratigraphic occurrence, ethnographic comparisons, and biotype reconstruction. Archaeofauna 25:  107-126

The Roman fort-village complex at Vindolanda in northern England has yielded extensive well-preserved remains of domestic dogs, Canis familiaris. Herein, we pose the questions—did the Romans breed for distinctive dog morphotypes, or were dogs breeding panmictically; and if dogs were bred, was it for functionality.

Biotype reconstructions of the eight dog morphotypes known from Roman Vindolanda

We address these questions utilizing remains that are correlated to age and context; morphometric analysis; dental wear stage; bone pathology; pawprints impressed in tiles, and contemporary written records and artwork. All age classes of dogs are represented. There is no evidence that dogs were butchered for food; survivorship curves suggest the typical U-shaped distribution found in populations at equilibrium. Small, medium-sized, and large dogs are represented with frequency changing over time and corresponding to change in the region of origin of the resident military cohort. Husbandry is confirmed on an individual with healed wounds and with the discovery of a beehive-shaped wattle doghouse. Dogs were used extensively in hunting wild game and bred for that activity. By integrating many diverse kinds of data we are able reconstruct biotypes of Roman dogs, greatly facilitating the interpretation of their functionality.

Cat predation on wildlife in Haute Savoie, France

Vuagnat-Kolter, M. Prédation du chat domestique, Felis catus (linnaeus, 1758) sur la faune sauvage, dans une commune péri-urbaine de Haute-Savoie (74). Le Bièvre, 22.

Le chat domestique, Felis catus (Linnaeus, 1758) est une espèce invasive, un redoutable prédateur et un animal de compagnie qui ne dépend pas de la disponibilité des proies pour survivre. Ces trois aspects associés à l’importante densité de chats font de sa prédation sur la faune sauvage, un facteur important dans le fonctionnement des écosystèmes, qui peut entraîner localement le déclin d’espèces
indigènes. La présente étude a eu lieu en Haute-Savoie dans la commune de Feigères. Toutes les proies  ramenées au domicile par 44 chats domestiques ont été identifiées sur une durée de 3 mois. Un total de 163 proies ont été tuées (86 micromammifères, 69 oiseaux, 8 reptiles) pour une moyenne de 3,7 proies par chat. Neuf espèces d’oiseaux ont été identifiées, parmi lesquelles le moineau domestique (58 %) est le plus représentée devant le merle noir (13  %). Le moineau domestique est placé en première position car il est commensal de l’homme et vit dans toutes sortes de zones modifiées par celui-ci, notamment les jardins. L’extrapolation des résultats à l’échelle de la commune montre que 2068 proies dont 878 oiseaux ont été potentiellement tuées sur trois mois entre mi-avril et mi-juillet. Le suivi télémétrique réalisé sur une durée de cinq semaines sur cinq chats, a permis de démontrer que les chats sont inactifs la majeur partie du temps (77 %) et que leurs périodes d’activité privilégiées sont l’aube et le crépuscule, lorsque les températures sont les plus basses de la journée. Le domaine vital des chats est relativement petit, ils n’effectuent pas de grandes distances et occupent principalement leur foyer ainsi que le jardin attenant à celui-ci.

The domestic cat Felix catus (Linn. 1758) is an invasive species, a formidable predator and a pet which is not dependent on the availability of prey for its survival. These three elements, plus the high density of cats, make its preying on wildlife a major factor in the functioning of ecosystems. This can lead to a decline in indigenous species locally. The present study took place in the Haute-Savoie department (France), in the commune of Feigères. All the prey brought home by 44 domestic cats were identified over a period of 3 months. There were 163 prey items in all (86 small mammals, 69 birds and 8 reptiles) for an average of 3.7 prey items per cat. 9 species of bird were identified, among which the House Sparow was the most numerous (58  %) followed by Blackbird (13  %). The House Sparrow came first because it is closely associated with man and lives in all sorts of places modified by him, notably gardens. Extrapolating the results to the scale of the commune produces 2068 prey items including 878 birds which were potentially killed over the three-month period from mid-April to mid-July. Radiotracking carried out on 5 cats over 5 weeks showed that cats are inactive most
(77  %) of the time. Their preferred periods of activity are dawn and dusk when the day temperatures are at their lowest. The cats’ territories are relatively small, not covering large distances, and mainly
occupy their homes and the adjacent gardens.

Spatial ecology and prey choice of tagged feral cats

van der Ende, J. M. (2015). Spatial ecology and prey choice of tagged feral cats on Schiermonnikoog. M.Sc. Dissertation.  Master of Science in Geographical Information Systems (UNIGIS) Faculty of Economics and Business Administration Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
The Netherlands

Feral cats (Felis catus) inhabiting the island Schiermonnikoog, The Netherlands, are a potential threat for local prey species populations. To improve the understanding and retrieve more insight in the spatial ecology of this invasive predator, ten feral cats (5 male : 5 female; 5 adult : 5 subadult) were equipped with GPS tags and followed from May till July 2014. Spatio-temporal analyses were used. The home ranges we calculated using Minimum Convex Polygon and Kernel density estimators and tested for differences in sex, age and time. The displacement distance and habitat use was compared between day and night. Locomotive behaviour was compared between subjects using a pre-defined dimension dyad with daily movement variables. In addition, scats were collected and analysed on prey remains and compared with the prey present in the area.
Average 3-month home ranges were found to be 81 and 158ha using Kernel density 95% and Minimum Convex Polygon 95% home ranges respectively. Home range sizes were not significantly different between sexes or age classes. However, nocturnal home range sizes were bigger than the diurnal ones. The nocturnal habitat use did differ from the diurnal use, suggesting a small preference for short salt marsh vegetation during the night. The cats showed a higher nightly displacement (M=45m/15min) compared to during the day (M=22m/15min). The cats were very variable in their daily migration (range M=198-528m) and cumulative daily displacement (range M=1.5-4.1km). A new visualisation technique was proposed to identify differences and similarities between the feral cats and seemed to work well. Hares (Lepus europaeus) contributed the most to the diet in terms of relative prey volume, but Common vole (Microtus arvalis) was the most numerous prey item found in the scats.
In conclusion this study describes the spatial ecology of feral cats and give new insights in the behaviour of feral cats in a natural part of a Dutch Waddensea island. The home ranges of males are not necessarily bigger than female ones. They tend to use short salt marsh vegetation more during the night which could indicate they hunt on the nocturnal species foraging there like hares and rabbits. Bird remains are found in the scats which indicate a potential threat for the bird population by this invasive introduced predator. However in this research no indication is found they actively search and hunt on birds. Further research using acceleration data might be useful to better quantify their hunting behaviour.

Feeding habits of house and feral cats on small Adriatic islands

Lanszki J., Kletečki E., Trócsányi B., Mužinić J., Széles G.L. & Purger J.J. 2015  (in press) Feeding habits of house and feral cats (Felis catus) on small Adriatic islands (Croatia). North-Western Journal of Zoology (online first): art.151708

The domestic cat (Felis catus), a globally recognised invasive predator, was introduced to the Adriatic islands (Croatia), but its feeding ecology and impacts on biodiversity in this region is unknown. We studied the feeding habits of house cats living in villages and feral cats on the outskirts of villages on two small islands (Olib and Silba) by analysing faecal samples collected in the spring and autumn periods. Our hypothesis was that the feeding strategies of cats as top mammalian predators vary in different environments, due to significant dissimilarities in their food resources. We surveyed the abundance of cats and their primary food types, e.g. small mammals, birds, rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus, and lizards. Our results suggest that house cats fed most often on birds and household food, while feral cats ate mostly small mammals and lizards. Feral cats preferred the invasive mesopredator black rat (Rattus rattus) (Ivlev’s index of preference, feral cats Ei = 0.72, house cats Ei = 0.14), suggesting that cats might have an effect on rat populations. Common rabbits had a low density and were preyed on only occasionally. In both cat groups, predation on birds was more frequent during autumn migration when bird abundance was higher, than in the spring breeding period. Both groups were food generalists but in different ways, which is a fact that should be considered in planning predator pest control on the islands.

Cat predation risk contribute to senescence in swallows

BALBONTÍN, J., & MØLLER, A. 2015. Environmental conditions during early life accelerate the rate of senescence in a short-lived passerine bird. Ecology

Environmental conditions experienced in early life may shape subsequent phenotypic traits including life history. We investigated how predation risk caused by domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) and local breeding density affected patterns of reproductive and survival senescence in Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) breeding semicolonially in Denmark. We recorded the abundance of cats and the number of breeding pairs at 39 breeding sites during 24 years and related these to age-specific survival rate and reproductive senescence to test predictions of the life history theory of senescence. We found evidence for actuarial senescence for the first time in this species. Survival rate increased until reaching a plateau in midlife and then decreased later. We also found that survival rate was higher for males than females. Local breeding density or predation risk did not affect survival as predicted by theory. Barn Swallows with short lives did not invest more in reproduction in early life, inconsistent with expectations for trade-offs between reproduction and survival as theory suggests. However, we found that the rate of reproductive decline during senescence was steeper for individuals exposed to intense competition, and predation pressure accelerated the rate of reproductive senescence, but only in sites with many breeding pairs. These latter results are in accordance with one of the predictions suggested by the life history theory of aging. These results emphasize the importance of considering intraspecific competition and interspecific interactions such as predation when analyzing reproductive and actuarial senescence.

Urbanisation, predation and house sparrow populations

De Coster, G., De Laet, J., Vangestel, C., Adriaensen, F., & Lens, L. (2015). Citizen science in action—Evidence for long-term, region-wide House Sparrow declines in Flanders, Belgium. Landscape and Urban Planning, 134, 139-146.

Urban expansion is detrimental for many species. While the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) initially flourished in the vicinity of men, a decline in House Sparrow numbers has been observed in several European cities during the last decades. A lack of systematic data on the status of this species in the highly urbanized Flanders (Belgium) has been the reason why since 2002, the Flemish population has been called annually to count House Sparrows during the breeding season. Here, we describe the results of the first ten years of sparrow counting. While inhabitants from 99% of the municipalities participated at least once, large differences in numbers of participants were observed among municipalities: the larger the population size, the more people counted sparrows. Results indicated that House Sparrow abundances have been decreasing in Flanders over the past decade. Contrary to several other European regions, the decline appears equally strong in rural and urban areas. However, average numbers of House Sparrows were lower in more densely populated, urban areas, and where less cropland, grassland and parks surrounded the sampling location. House Sparrow abundances also decreased significantly over time at locations where predator pressure increased. These results suggest that the House Sparrow decline in Flanders is due to the ever encroaching urbanization and the reduction of the amount of green space. Furthermore, it shows that data collection by volunteers can be a useful approach to obtain large-scale and long-term data in a relatively easy way, in addition to raising public awareness to the natural environme

Ecology of stray dogs in the Republic of Karelia

Sedova, N. 2014. Ecology of stray dogs in the Republic of Karelia. 9th Baltic Theriological Conference. Book of Abstracts, p. 73. Daugavpils, 16 – 18 October, 2014

The study was carried out between 2002-2007 in three cities in Karelia: Petrozavodsk, Belomorsk and Kostamuksha. During this period 669 dogs were censused in Petrozavodsk, 162 dogs in Belomorsk and 82 dogs in Kostamuksha.
Depending on the nature of owner control and the degree of socialization we distinguished three types of stray dogs; these were «neglected pets», «homeless» and «feral». In Petrozavodsk there were 232 individuals of the first type, 669 of the second type and about 20 of the third type. In Kostamuksha and Belomorsk numbers of «neglected pets» were 148 and 40 individuals respectively. «homeless» dogs were 162 and 82 individuals respectively, and «feral» dogs were not found. In the research we have identified 135 morphotypes of dogs in Petrozavodsk, and of these the dominant type is so called «laykoid» of black color, medium height, short-haired, upstanding ears with a log-like form tail (wolf form). In Kostamuksha there were 48 morphotypes identified and 58 in Belomorsk. Comparing between these cities has explored the same morphotype of stray dogs – red colored «laykoid», medium height, short-haired, upstanding ears and log-like tail.
The spatial structure of the stray dogs’ population in Petrozavodsk is characterized by aggregated distribution. It is expressed as a formation of various groups with large unpopulated areas between. For the packs in the industrial territories, small home ranges size (0.02 - 0.1 km²) were typical, with a low degree of variability within this. In residential territories the home range sizes did not exceed the foresaid (0.02 - 0.1 km²). Grouped distribution is mostly typical in the industrial territories where 75% of all dogs were gregarious. For residential territories solitary individuals were mainly typical: in Petrozavodsk - 90%, in Kostamuksha - 100 %, and in Belomorsk - 100%. However, packs did sometimes occur.
All contact of stray dogs with other species can be reduced to direct contact and mediated interaction. By direct contact the dogs demonstrate active predatory behaviour, or research activity. Mediated interaction can be described as commensalism, for instance when dogs consume cats - the main predators of rats in towns, as well as improve access of rodents and birds to feed. Competitive relations of stray dogs with other animals have not been identified.
The average number of stray dogs in Petrozavodsk was about 36.8 ind/ km² (1300 individuals in total). Analysis of number dynamics (2003-2007) showed that annual differences are insignificant. Changes tended to be small, indicating numbers to be fairly stable. The average number of stray dogs in Kostamuksha is 1.22 ind/km², and in Belomorsk - 5.91 ind/ km².
Analysis of samples within 2003-2007 showed that in Petrozavodsk the overall sex ratio among adults is 1:1. In Belomorsk and Kostamuksha there is a predominance of males. One explanation behind this is that the number of stray dogs are replenished by negelected domestic dogs, which are dominated by males.
In general the stray dog population within the studied cities was characterised by low numbers. One can also note the dependence of dog number on the area and layout of the city. The high numbers of neglected dogs observed in the streets indicates a culture of low pet care.

Increasing impact of feral dogs on wild ungulates in Urals

Korytin, N,, V. Bolshakov & N. Markov. 2014. Effect of mammalian predator on the populations of ungulates in Middle Urals. 9th Baltic Theriological Conference. Book of Abstracts, Daugavpils, 16 – 18 October, 2014

Wild ungulates are the main food source for large carnivores in Russia and particularly in Urals. Here we present the results of the analysis of the effect of carnivores on ungulates populations according to the official statistics of ungulate mortality not related to legal hunting (“natural” mortality). Predation of wolf accounts for 16 and 19% of wild boar and moose mortality respectively, for the pair “lynx” – “Siberian roe deer” this index equals 19%. Another important predator of roe deer is feral dogs. Their impact on ungulate populations has increased in recent years. Prey preferences differ between predators. The proportion of young among animals killed by feral dogs is higher than that for other carnivores.

German hunters angered by proposed ban on shooting cats

The hunters' federation of the rural state of North Rhine-Westphalia defends the practice on environmental grounds, saying on its website that a wild cat can "kill up to 1,000 birds" a year.But a new law, due to be presented to the regional parliament before the end of the year aims to move tabbies out of their crosshairs.Environment ministry spokesman Wilhelm Deitermann said under current legislation dating from the 1930s, hunters can target cats which venture more than 200 metres (650 feet) from a house or prowl fields and the edges of forests.But the ministry, headed by ecologist Johannes Remmel, argues that the damage caused by cats "does not justify such regulation".The legal change spells good news for local felines. During the last hunting season shooters in the state killed "about 8,000 cats," Deitermann told AFP.

Read more at: http://phys.org/news/2014-10-german-hunters-angered-cats.html#jCp

Cats seem to predate on birds with lower immunocompetence

Møller, A.P. & Erritzøe, J. 2000. Predation against birds with low immunocompetence. Oecologia. 122(4): 500–504.

Differences in the phenotypic characteristics between individuals falling prey to predators and conspecifics avoiding predation will reflect the intensity of selection on prey. If prey are generally in poor condition, we predicted that they should have an inferior health status in comparison to individuals dying for other reasons. We investigated this prediction for prey and conspecifics that did not die from predation by comparing the size of the spleen, which is an important immune defence organ reflecting one component of immunocompetence, using 18 species of passerine birds and domestic cat Felis catus predators as a model system. Prey had consistently smaller spleens than non-prey, implying that they had weak immune systems. The data set did not indicate that sex or age, month of death, body mass, body condition, liver mass, wing length or tarsus length differed significantly between prey and non-prey. Thus there was little evidence of confounding factors affecting the results. These observations indirectly suggest that disease and parasitism may play an important role in predator-prey interactions.

Mean (+SE) spleen mass (g) for birds captured by cats (Prey) and other conspecifics (Others). Numbers are sample sizes

Parasites in insular and mainland populations of feral cats

Fromont, E., Morvilliers, L., Artois, M., & Pontier, D. (2001). Parasite richness and abundance in insular and mainland feral cats: insularity or density?.Parasitology, 123(02), 143-151.

Hosts living on islands carry few parasite species, and the prevalence and intensity of directly transmitted parasites are often higher in insular than in mainland populations. However, it is unclear whether density or other features of insular populations can be responsible for the pattern observed. We compared the parasite richness, prevalence and intensity of parasites between 2 feral populations of cats living either at low density on an island (Kerguelen) or at high density on the mainland (Lyon). Parasite richness was higher in Lyon than in Kerguelen, where only Toxocara cati was found. T. cati egg prevalence was higher in Kerguelen (71·1%) than in Lyon (58·0%). Because cat density cannot explain this pattern, we propose that the low number of parasite species, the diet and/or immunity of cats act to increase prevalence in Kerguelen. Moreover, prevalence, intensity and variance-to-mean ratio increased with age and body mass in Kerguelen whereas, in Lyon, prevalence decreased with age and body mass. We hypothesize that the pattern of exposure differs between populations, and that density-dependent parasite mortality is lower in Kerguelen than in Lyon. We discuss the consequences concerning the influence of parasites on insular host populations.

A review of dog domestication from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age

Horard-Herbin, M-P., A. Tresset & J-D.Vigne. 2014. Domestication and uses of the dog in western Europe from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age. Animal Frontiers, 4 (3) 23-31 doi: 10.2527/af.2014-0018 

This paper reviews the knowledge of the history of the dog in western Europe acquired through archaeozoology.

The first part examines the question of domestication of the wolf during the Upper Paleolithic, by highlighting the sometimes contradictory archeological and genetic findings. It also briefly lays out the different controversies regarding the site or sites of domestication of the dog in the world and the presumed dates of this major phenomenon in human history.

The second part deals with the evolution of canine morphology from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age, integrating, for example, the latest discoveries regarding domestic coat colors in the Mesolithic.

Finally, the presumed and attested uses of dogs throughout European pre- and protohistory are presented, including certain practices that lasted over time.

Two studies on Paleolithic dogs and a controversy

Germonpré, M., Sablin, M. V., Stevens, R. E., Hedges, R. E., Hofreiter, M., Stiller, M., & Després, V. R. (2009). Fossil dogs and wolves from Palaeolithic sites in Belgium, the Ukraine and Russia: osteometry, ancient DNA and stable isotopes. Journal of Archaeological Science, 36(2), 473-490.

Using multivariate techniques, several skulls of fossil large canids from sites in Belgium, Ukraine and Russia were examined to look for possible evidence of the presence of Palaeolithic dogs. Reference groups constituted of prehistoric dogs, and recent wolves and dogs. The fossil large canid from Goyet (Belgium), dated at c. 31,700 BP is clearly different from the recent wolves, resembling most closely the prehistoric dogs. Thus it is identified as a Palaeolithic dog, suggesting that dog domestication had already started during the Aurignacian. The Epigravettian Mezin 5490 (Ukraine) and Mezhirich (Ukraine) skulls are also identified as being Palaeolithic dogs. Selected Belgian specimens were analyzed for mtDNA and stable isotopes. All fossil samples yielded unique DNA sequences, indicating that the ancient Belgian large canids carried a substantial amount of genetic diversity. Furthermore, there is little evidence for phylogeographic structure in the Pleistocene large canids, as they do not form a homogenous genetic group. Although considerable variation occurs in the fossil canid isotope signatures between sites, the Belgian fossil large canids preyed in general on horse and large bovids.

Dorsal view of the skulls from (a) Goyet (dog); (b) Trou Balleux (wolf); (c) Trou des Nutons (wolf),
showing the relative wide braincase of the Goyet dog 

Germonpré, M., Lázničková-Galetová, M., & Sablin, M. V. (2012). Palaeolithic dog skulls at the Gravettian Předmostí site, the Czech Republic. Journal of Archaeological Science, 39(1), 184-202.

Whether or not the wolf was domesticated during the early Upper Palaeolithic remains a controversial issue. We carried out detailed analyses of the skull material from the Gravettian Předmostí site, Czech Republic, to investigate the issue. Three complete skulls from Předmostí were identified as Palaeolithic dogs, characterized by short skull lengths, short snouts, and wide palates and braincases relative to wolves. One complete skull could be assigned to the group of Pleistocene wolves. Three other skulls could not be assigned to a reference group; these might be remains from hybrids or captive wolves. Modifications by humans of the skull and canine remains from the large canids of Předmostí indicate a specific relationship between humans and large canids.

Highlights

► Accepting an Aurignacian beginning of the domestication of the wolf is controversial. ►The Gravettian canid skulls from Předmostí were studied to check for the presence of dogs. ►Ancient dogs are characterized by short skulls and snouts, and wide palates and braincases. ►Using these criteria three Předmostí skulls were singled out as Gravettian dogs. ►Human modifications of the skulls hint at a specific human/large canid relationship.

Susan J. Crockford, S.J. & Y.V. KuzminComments on Germonpré et al., Journal of Archaeological Science 36, 2009 “Fossil dogs and wolves from Palaeolithic sites in Belgium, the Ukraine and Russia: osteometry, ancient DNA and stable isotopes”, and Germonpré, Lázkičková-Galetová, and Sablin, Journal of Archaeological Science 39, 2012 “Palaeolithic dog skulls at the Gravettian Předmostí site, the Czech Republic” Journal of Archaeological Science, 39(8):2797–2801. DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2012.04.033

Issues related to the identification of Late Pleistocene dogs from different sites in Eurasia, triggered by recent publications (see Germonpré et al., 2009, 2012; Ovodov et al., 2011), are discussed. The main focus is the problem of how to distinguish wolves from early dogs on the basis of skull and teeth morphology. The studies by 18 and 19, reporting so-called ‘Palaeolithic dogs’ from Předmostí, Goyet, and other sites in Eastern and Central Europe, have some serious deficiencies. In our opinion, more work needs to be done to understand the biological mechanisms involved in wolf domestication and until then, it is premature to classify these Palaeolithic canids as fully domesticated dogs or even incipient dogs.

Highlights


► We discuss issues related to so-called ‘Palaeolithic dogs’ from sites in Eurasia. ► Our comments pertain to studies described in 18 and 19. ► We suggest it is premature to classify these Palaeolithic canids as fully domesticated dogs.

Germonpré, M., Sablin, M. V., Després, V., Hofreiter, M., Lázničková-Galetová, M., Stevens, R. E., & Stiller, M. (2013). Palaeolithic dogs and the early domestication of the wolf: a reply to the comments of Crockford and Kuzmin (2012). Journal of Archaeological Science, 40(1), 786-792.

This is a response to the comments of Crockford and Kuzmin (2012) on our identification of Palaeolithic dogs from different European Palaeolithic sites. In their comments Crockford and Kuzmin (2012) present some errors, misunderstandings and misrepresentations that we remedy here. In our opinion, the early wolf domestication must be regarded as an intimate relationship between humans and canids including the breeding of the latter by prehistoric people, resulting in the European Palaeolithic dogs.

Highlights

► Accepting an Aurignacian beginning of the domestication of the wolf is controversial. ► Crockford and Kuzmin (2012) conjecture such an early domestication. ► This is a response to the comments of Crockford and Kuzmin (2012) on our identification of European Palaeolithic dogs. ► Two large canid types occur in certain European Palaeolithic sites. ► This is explained by the presence of Palaeolithic dogs and Pleistocene wolves.

see also 

The role of cats in the eco-epidemiology of Spotted Fever Group diseases

Segura, F., Pons, I., Miret, J., Pla, J., Ortuño, A., & Nogueras, M. M. (2014). The role of cats in the eco-epidemiology of Spotted Fever Group diseases. Parasites & Vectors, 7(1), 353.

Background

Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF), whose etiological agent is R. conorii, is one of the oldest described vector-borne infectious diseases. Although it is endemic in the Mediterranean area, clinical cases have also been reported in other regions. R. massiliae-Bar29 is related to MSF cases. This strain is distributed worldwide. R. conorii and R.massiliae-Bar29 are transmitted by ticks. Dogs are considered the sentinel of R. conorii infection. Cats could also be involved in their transmission. Rickettsia felis, etiological agent of Flea-borne spotted fever, is mainly transmitted by the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis. Up to now, the role of cats in its transmission is not entirely elucidated. The aim of the study is to analyze the infection in cats by these microorganisms.

Methods

The study was undertaken in Northeastern Spain. Twenty municipalities of seven regions participated in the study. 212 cats (pets and stray cats) were analyzed. Variables surveyed were: date of collection, age, sex, municipality, source, living place, outdoor activities, health status, type of disease, contact with other animals, and ectoparasite infestation. Sera were evaluated by indirect immunofluorescence antibody assay (IFA). Molecular detection (realtime PCR and sequencing) and cultures were performed on blood samples.

Results

There were 59 (27.8%) cats seroreactive to one or more microorganisms. Considering crossreactions, the seroprevalences were 15.6%-19.5% (R. massiliae-Bar29), 1.9%-6.2% (R. conorii), and 5.2%-7.5% (R. felis). A weak association was observed between SFG seropositivity and tick infestation. Ticks found on seropositive cats were Rhipicephalus pusillus, R. sanguineus and R. turanicus. DNA of Rickettsia was detected in 23 cats. 21 of them could be sequenced. Sequences obtained were identical to those sequences of SFG rickettsiae similar to R. conorii and R. massiliae. No amplification of R. felis was obtained.

Conclusions

Cats can be infected by SFG rickettsiae and produce antibodies against them. Cats may play a role in the transmission cycle of R. conorii and R. massiliae-Bar29, although the role in the R. felis cycle needs further analysis.

Individual cat's scat detection probability

Forin-Wiart, M. A., Gotteland, C., Gilot-Fromont, E., & Poulle, M. L. (2014). Assessing the homogeneity of individual scat detection probability using the bait-marking method on a monitored free-ranging carnivore population. European Journal of Wildlife Research, 1-8.

Estimates of terrestrial carnivore populations are often based on information derived from scat collected during trail-based sampling. However, few attempts have been made to verify the homogeneity of individual scat detection probability because wild carnivore species seldom afford this opportunity. The present study aims to test this assumption on a free-ranging population of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus), as this carnivore has ranging behaviours close enough to its wild ancestor to provide useful information for wild carnivore surveys. The homogeneity of scat detection probability was investigated using the bait-marking method on a previously monitored population of 142 individuals, composed of free-roaming house cats (43 %) and farm cats (57 %). An 11-km trail was walked twice a week over a 58-day period to individually feed cats with marked baits and to collect their faeces. From the 8,236 faeces expected to be dropped by cats over that period, less than 2 % were collected, and from the 215 baits distributed to 44 cats (31 % of the population), only 13.5 % of the expected marked faeces were found. Detectability of faeces producers did not differ between free-roaming house cats and farm cats, but faeces detection probability was linked with sex and reproductive status. This study, conducted on a monitored population of free-roaming carnivores, stresses that it is possible to make only cautious conclusions about population estimates supported by trail-based scat samplings, since only a few individuals may be responsible for many scat detections.

Virosis in wolf populations related to free-ranging dogs

Molnar, B., Duchamp, C., Möstl, K., Diehl, P. A., & Betschart, B. (2014). Comparative survey of canine parvovirus, canine distemper virus and canine enteric coronavirus infection in free-ranging wolves of central Italy and south-eastern France. European Journal of Wildlife Research, 1-12.

Diseases likely affect large carnivore demography and can hinder conservation efforts. We considered three highly contagious viruses that infect a wide range of domestic and wild mammals: canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2), canine distemper virus (CDV) and canine enteric coronaviruses (CECoV). Infection by either one of these viruses can affect populations through increased mortality and/or decreased general health. We investigated infection in the wolf populations of Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise National Park (PNALM), Italy, and of Mercantour National Park (PNM), France. Faecal samples were collected during one winter, from October to March, from four packs in PNALM (n = 79) and from four packs in PNM (n = 66). We screened samples for specific sequences of viral nucleic acids. To our knowledge, our study is the first documented report of CECoV infection in wolves outside Alaska, and of the large-scale occurrence of CPV-2 in European wolf populations. The results suggest that CPV-2 is enzootic in the population of PNALM, but not in PNM and that CECoV is episodic in both areas. We did not detect CDV. Our findings suggest that density and spatial distribution of susceptible hosts, in particular free-ranging dogs, can be important factors influencing infections in wolves. This comparative study is an important step in evaluating the nature of possible disease threats in the studied wolf populations. Recent emergence of new viral strains in Europe additionally strengthens the need for proactive monitoring of wolves and other susceptible sympatric species for viral threats and other impairing infections.