Linkage of population parameters in vertebrate predators in Paazerje Forest (Northern Belarus)
Most essential population parameters in predators in order to reveal some more patterns in structure and functioning of vertebrate predator-prey community were analyzed. Significant positive correlations between fecundity and litter size, reproduction (fecundity and portion of juveniles) and population density were found. There appeared no considerable differences in mortality in juveniles during litter period in the predator assemblages. It was revealed that the majority of raptor species having lower fecundity than carnivores were characterized by relatively low population density. It was found that the difference in population density of predator species and, in turn, species portions in predator assemblages and guilds mostly resulted from intensity of breeding, but not from survival rate. Significant positive correlations between body mass and mortality in adults, mean longevity in adults and maximal longevity, fecundity and mortality of juveniles was found only for the Carnivora assemblage.