Golden Eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) have been identified as a potential predator of endangered San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica), but only one case of such predation has been confirmed. In a recent study on San Joaquin kit foxes, we documented 6 cases of putative predation by Golden Eagles on kit foxes and provided our evidence for each. Golden Eagle predation on kit foxes is most likely to occur in the spring when kit foxes and their pups are frequently aboveground during the day. Such predation is more likely to occur around the margins of the San Joaquin kit fox range, where suitable kit fox habitat abuts suitable nesting habitat for Golden Eagles.
How to translate text using browser tools
11 November 2019
Golden Eagle Predation on Endangered San Joaquin Kit Foxes
Brian L. Cypher,
Kenneth A. Spencer,
Tory L. Westall,
Daniel E. Meade
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE