Spatial and Temporal Partitioning among Insectivorous Mammals within Camdeboo National Park, South Africa

Abstract

Protected areas are important for conserving species richness, diversity, and abundance. However, some of these protected areas, particularly in South Africa, are fenced off and small (<400 km2), and this could result in coexistence and/or competition between species. Competition and coexistence can potentially rely on both spatial and temporal niche partitioning. There is currently limited information on how insectivorous mammals in small, enclosed protected areas interact and utilize their environment, both temporally and spatially. This study focused on defining the potential spatial and temporal niche partitioning amongst the bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis), aardvark (Orycteropus afer), and aardwolf (Proteles cristata). We predicted direct interactions, including species feeding on the same insect mounds or having similar feeding habits, resulting in interspecies competition and encounters. We further predicted indirect interactions, including overlapping home ranges and being active at the same or similar times. To attain our objectives, camera traps were set up in Camdeboo National Park, in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa. These cameras were placed in a 3 × 3 km2 grid formation to capture images of the insectivores, which were further analysed to identify their spatial and temporal niches. This study is the first of its kind to take place in the region and one of the few that focuses on the behaviour of medium-sized insectivorous mammals.