Giant Gartersnakes (Thamnophis gigas) exploit abundant non-native prey while maintaining their appetite for native anurans
The introductions of nonnative species can cause great change in the trophic dynamics of native species. Giant Gartersnakes, endemic predators in the Central Valley of California, are listed as threatened because of the conversion of their once vast wetland habitat to agriculture. Further contributing to this snake's changing ecology is the introduction of many nonnative prey species, resulting in a diet that is almost completely composed of nonnative species. In order to determine whether these snakes actively select their prey or simply consume what is abundant, we examined prey selection by adult Giant Gartersnakes in the context of what prey was available to each individual. Giant Gartersnakes selected a native anuran over nonnative anuran and fish species despite these nonnatives dominating the available species composition. These results contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying Giant Gartersnake diets in the contemporary landscape and can lead to improved management of prey communities for Giant Gartersnakes and other native predators.
Citation Information
| Publication Year | 2020 |
|---|---|
| Title | Giant Gartersnakes (Thamnophis gigas) exploit abundant non-native prey while maintaining their appetite for native anurans |
| DOI | 10.1655/Herpetologica-D-18-00026.1 |
| Authors | Julia Ersan, Brian J. Halstead, Erica L Wildy, Michael L. Casazza, Glenn D. Wylie |
| Publication Type | Article |
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Series Title | Herpetologica |
| Index ID | 70219265 |
| Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
| USGS Organization | Western Ecological Research Center |
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Julia Ersan (Former Employee)
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Julia Ersan (Former Employee)
Wildlife BiologistBrian Halstead
Research Wildlife BiologistEmailPhoneMichael Casazza
Research Wildlife BiologistEmailPhone