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Synopsis

African wild dogs suffer direct costs from kleptoparasitism by other large carnivores, but the severity of those impacts is debated. Stimulated by observations that African wild dog densities were inversely related to those of spotted hyaena, research suggested that high hunting costs make African wild dogs vulnerable to the energetic costs of kleptoparasitism by spotted hyenas, which could place them on an energetic knife-edge. Arguable, previous studies overlook key nuances in this interspecific dynamic that could substantially tip the energetic balance. This project will incorporate new knowledge and parameters to reassess the impact of heterospecific kleptoparasites on the energetic balance of African wild dogs.

Aims

Using recent insights and overlooked nuances, this project will take a modelling approach to reassess the potential impact of kleptoparasitism on endangered African wild dogs.

Student benefits

This is a desk-based study. You will conduct research on movement ecology and inform the survey efforts of conservation ecologists in the field. Through this project you'll learn how to:

• Review scientific literature for relevant population parameters
• Model population trends while varying parameters of interest
• Carry out sophisticated statistical analysis
• Create a conceptual framework
• Write a key scientific paper with conservation application

Supervisor:ÌýDr Neil Jordan