Native predatory wildlife performs a vital role in a healthy ecosystem. However, predatory animals also cause damage or pose a threat to resources, including threats to people.
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) released the latest comprehensive environmental assessment (EA) of mammal predation last month, outlining the extent of the problem by geographic region and the impact of both traditional and alternative methods of dealing with predation as it relates to agriculture, according to Southwest Farm Press.
Cattle and calf losses due to predators in Texas was valued at over $18 million in 2005 and at over $19.4 million in 2010. These losses are chiefly caused by coyotes, at 47 percent, but others predators include dogs, bobcats, mountain lions and foxes.
To review the final EA and the traditional and alternative methods of action being considered to address predation problems in select regions of Texas, visit this link.