Artificial feeding alters gliding-mammal behavior and increases predation risk in urban forests

Abstract

Artificial feeding of wildlife can profoundly impact ecosystem properties by modifying animal behavior and species' interactions. Some local governments in Japan are now regulating artificial feeding to minimize ecosystem-related risks. Most studies assessing impacts of artificial feeding have been biased toward large mammals. Here, we focused on the effects of artificial feeding on Siberian flying squirrels in Hokkaido, Japan. Using a line census and questionnaire methods, we compared the effects of artificial feeding vs. natural foods on flying-squirrel behavior and predation risk. Specifically, we evaluated the use of feeding tables by flying squirrels, changes in foraging behavior as a measurement of the boldness of individuals who visited feeding tables, the presence of domestic cats, and predation events involving cats and flying squirrels. Flying squirrels used feeding tables, and those that did tended to stay at lower heights and for longer durations while foraging relative to those consuming natural foods. Domestic-cat predation was observed around feeding tables. These results indicate that artificial feeding alters flying-squirrel behavior and ultimately increases predation risk. We recommend long-term monitoring to assess population-level effects of artificial feeding.