Locomotor Adaptations by Carnivores

Abstract

Carnivores exhibit a wide range of locomotor behaviors. However, an animal’s morphology limits its range of movements and therefore provides a constraint to certain locomotor activities. For instance, the body proportions and morphology of the sea otter (Enhydra lutris) make it an excellent swimmer, whereas it has difficulty moving on land. Likewise, the arboreal specializations of the ringtail (Bassariscus astutus), which allow it to perform complex acrobatic movements, restrict its abilities for other forms of locomotion such as running or digging. Some carnivores improve the effect of their locomotor skills with behavioral modifications; for example, the group hunting behavior of the African lion (Panthera leo) and the gray wolf (Canis lupus) allows them to catch prey that they would not be able to catch as individuals (Mech 1970; Schaller 1972). Therefore, from an evolutionary viewpoint, one must recognize that behavioral adaptations may be as important as morphological adaptations. However, although the behavior of many carnivores is poorly known, it is possible to infer a great deal from their morphological adaptations and to use this information in a predictive way to understand their role in particular ecosystems.