Abstract

A study was conducted in Eravikulam National Park in the High Ranges of Western Ghats to identify the prey species of large mammalian predators. Hair structure of thirty seven mammalian species were studied. Distribution and abundance of prey speciesin the area were estimated from Point Count and Direct Sighting Methods. Scats of the predators were collected in different seasons and analysed for identification of prey species from the hair remains. Hair structure of thirty seven mammals, at proximalmiddle, and distal parts were studied and a key prepared for identification. Analyses of the scats indicate that sambar deer formed the major prey species of wild dogs and tiger. Nilgiri tahr was preyed upon mostly by panther. The abundance of prey species and predation are not positively correlated. There had been seasonal difference in the presence of prey species evidences in the scats. However, there is no conclusive data to arrive at such a conclusion. Morphological adaptations and predator avoidance behaviour of the prey species seem to be the major factors determining the prey predator relations in Eravikulam National Park