Predators (Carnivora) are a group of mammals adapted to a carnivorous lifestyle. They are characterized by sharpened senses, highly coordinated and rapid body action, and distinctive dentition, which we call carnivorous dentition. They are characterized by long saber-toothed canines, with which they seize prey, and strongly modified carnassials, which are adapted for dismemberment. Many predators hunt their prey individually, some hunt in groups – packs. Species that prey on larger animals are more successful in hunting if they hunt in organized groups. For these predators, therefore, complex hierarchically organized social relationships have developed.
It is important to know that predators in nature are never as numerous as their prey, but with their lifestyle they are an indispensable link in maintaining natural balance. Usually the biomass of predators in an ecosystem is a hundred times smaller than the biomass of herbivores, therefore predators for their existence require large territories. The habitat of many predator species has shrunk to such an extent that they are on the brink of extinction. Unfortunately, fragmentation and loss of suitable predator habitats is largely the result of human activity.
The order Carnivora comprises 271 species of mammals from all over the world, and in our country there are 13 species, which we classify into four families – bears (Ursidae), dogs (Canidae), weasels (Mustelidae) and cats (Felidae).
