Can the scent of predators help manage deer populations?

Yes, research shows that the scent of predators like lynx can reduce the time deer spend browsing on young trees, indicating a potential role in managing deer populations and supporting forest regeneration.

Is there a plan to reintroduce lynx to Britain?

Conservationists are exploring the possibility of reintroducing lynx into Britain to help control overabundant deer populations and aid woodland regeneration.

How does predator scent affect deer behavior?

The scent of predators creates a 'landscape of fear,' altering deer behavior by reducing their time spent browsing on saplings and thus decreasing browsing pressure on woodlands.

Home / Environment / Predator Scent Scares Deer, Aids Forest Recovery

Predator Scent Scares Deer, Aids Forest Recovery

29 Jan

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Summary

Lynx scent alone reduces deer browsing time on saplings.
Predators, even their scent, can help control deer populations.
Reintroduction of lynx is being considered in Britain.

Predator Scent Scares Deer, Aids Forest Recovery

A new study indicates that the scent of predators, specifically lynx, can effectively deter deer from browsing on young trees. Researchers found that deer visited plots treated with lynx and wolf urine and scat less frequently and spent less time damaging saplings compared to control plots. This 'landscape of fear' strategy, driven by the risk of predation, could offer a natural solution to over-browsing.

Conservation efforts are considering the reintroduction of lynx into Britain, where they have been absent for 800 years. This move aims to help control deer populations that hinder woodland regeneration and boost forest ecosystems. While public support for reintroduction in areas like Northumberland is high, concerns about livestock remain. The study's findings suggest that even in areas where predators have been absent for generations, their scent can trigger an innate fear response in deer, with benefits expected to strengthen as predators re-establish themselves.