Apex Predation: Preying on Predators
Apex Predation: Preying on Predators
The movie Alien vs. Predator may have been science fiction but it can be used as a model of a concept important to a world molded by predation. Both the Alien and the Predator are viscous creatures that excel in stalking and killing their intended target. When either exists alone, they dominate their hunting grounds as apex predators. But, when both the Alien and the Predator coincide in the same environment (in this case the planet Earth) the focus of each creature shifts from stalking or ambushing the chosen prey to a violent and dedicated battle of apex predator against apex predator for dominance of a particular niche.
The ensuing battles between these two dominant creatures represents what ecologists call the competitive exclusion principle. The principle follows that two species competing for the same resources in the same habitat cannot coexist. Essentially, it's one species saying to another “there ain't enough room in this place for both of us” which is typically true. The need to compete leads to what is essentially a world of ecological warfare between species.
The results of competitive exclusion can have a profound ecological impact. Often both species involved are negatively impacted. Predators that compete for common prey can potentially eliminate the prey species from their habitat leading to the local elimination of each competing species. Also, when apex predators compete with and kill smaller predators which are often keystone species. The over hunting of keystone species by more dominant predators can lead to overpopulation of species lower on the food chain which may be more destructive overall to their environment.
As apex predators, human encroachment into the habitats of mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and other predators are in direct conflict with the human being. All of these predators are known to attack livestock as easy prey, reducing the human food source. On the urban edge, or in some cases in urban centers, predators have been reported to attack our species directly, typically our children.
Direct threats to the human's ecological niche and welfare as well as a responsibility to maintain the health of the overall environment means predator hunting is more than just sport, it is an ecological necessity. But participating in this war means humans have to be well armed and well equipped. I've found the best way to arm yourself for predator hunting is a visit to http://www.predatorhuntingpro.com. No matter if you're preparing fox hunting, bobcat hunting, coyote hunting or mountain lion hunting, PredatorHuntingPro has the supplies.
When determining what gear is best for your individual hunt the most important thing to consider is choice of weapon. Since predators are, by definition dangerous, violent animals, firearms are really the only practical choice. Small caliber varmint rifles are the preferred hunting rifle for coyote, bobcat, or fox.
A .223 Remington cartridge is an over all effective round for any type of predator or varmint. Though most agree that best overall round for these invasive varmints is the .25-06 Remington. Though any cartridge from a high powered 22 to a 24 are all acceptable.
But one target is a step above the rest. While most predators encountered are varmints, mountain lions are one of the worlds “big cats.” They are bigger, stronger and more dangerous than any other predator you'll likely encounter. A high powered .223 has the killing capability required, it may not be immediately effective. While mountain lions generally avoid humans, the chances of attack will increase when shot. When mountain lion hunting, a bigger bullet, like a 7mm-08 or .308 would be wise.
For smaller varmints or residential defense, a 12 gauge shotgun will the the hunter the stopping power and spread pattern that will ensure and effective kill.
Even though competitive exclusion states that complete competitors cannot exist, PredatorHuntingPro will still be a valuable asset to repel challengers to the human's niche, keeping unwanted predators and varmints where they belong and establish yet again that people are the ultimate apex predator.