Influence of intrinsic and extrinsic attributes on neonate survival in an invasive large mammal.

ABSTRACT: Understanding factors influencing survival of neonates for wild species is important for successful management, particularly for determining drivers of population dynamics. Wild pigs (Sus scrofa) are invasive and populations are rapidly increasing in part due to high reproductive capacity. Survival of adults is generally high, however, survival of piglets, and particularly neonates, is largely unknown. We located neonates at the natal nest and quantified survival in relation to individual and maternal biological attributes, and environmental variables. During 2017-2020, we captured 50 neonates from 13 litters and documented 28 mortalities (56%) over six weeks. Survival was positively influenced by pelage coloration, likely as a form of camouflage from predators. Male neonates had higher su

SUBMITTER: Chinn SM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8155080 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature