Predicting the Distribution of Individuals and the Consequences of Habitat Loss: The Role of Prey Depletion

We suggest a theoretical framework for predicting the distribution of predators when interference between predators is insignificant but depletion of the prey population is important. The pattern of density-dependent mortality of the prey can then be predicted. By incorporating the intake rate at which predators starve or emigrate we can determine the predator density a locality can sustain. We use this framework to show how it is possible to predict the change in predator population at a locality resulting from habitat loss.