Predation Losses of Cattle in Alberta

Abstract

Coyotes (Canis latrans), black bears (Ursus americanus), and wolves (Canis lupus) were reported responsible for 35, 31, and 16%, respectively, of confirmed predation losses of cattle in Alberta during 1974-78. Coyotes selected for calves over adults, and adults over yearlings, black bears selected for calves over yearlings, and yearlings over adults, and wolves selected for calves and yearlings over adults. Predation of cattle by coyotes, bears, and wolves peaked during March-June, May-July, and August-September, respectively.