Population trend and dietary habits of two sympatric mustelids (Martes foina and Mustela putorius): a long-term analysis

Despite widespread concern about biodiversity declines, few empirical studies exist on long-term population trends of mammal carnivores. In the context global change, it is essential to understand and resource use Mammal carnivores fulfil an important ecosystem function in terrestrial ecosystems as their top-down role directly indirectly influences prey populations which affects entire food web. The objective this study was evaluate whether how two sympatric mustelid species, stone marten polecat, have changed between 1998 2013 Flanders, Belgium. addition, we explored temporal changes dietary habits. From 1998–2013, collaboration with a citizen science network, collected road-killed animals over area Flanders (13,682 km²). Based number detected decrease polecat during 1998–2013 whereas has increased. By subsequent identification stomach contents specimens, fluctuations throughout year consumption certain types. items decreased (stone marten: fruits, grains nuts lagomorphs; polecat: birds, rodents other mammals) or increased edible waste amphibians) period opposite trends. An increase degree specialization diet sampling also for both species. summary, our concludes contrasting coupled clear feeding habits carnivore Understanding these relationships species ecology vital conservation nature management.