Conservation mapping should include dynamic maps of predator density, prey foraging value (prey diversity/abundance), and how climate change shifts both, not just static habitat features. Empirical tracking data (e.g., satellite tags on seals and bears) can reveal where prey deliberately trade higher predation risk for richer feeding — and where protections would be irrelevant or harmful if those interactions shift.
— Incorporating interaction‑aware, climate‑sensitive risk maps would change where governments and NGOs designate protected areas and prioritize conservation spending.
Devin Reese
2026.03.30
100% relevant
University of British Columbia et al. satellite tracking of 26 ringed seals and 39 polar bears in eastern Hudson Bay found seals linger in high fish‑diversity zones despite high polar‑bear activity, showing the interaction effect that should be mapped.
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