Temporal and spatial sampling strategies maintain tracking success of whelks to prey patches of differing distributions

► We examined whelks' ability to navigate to prey patches of clams at two densities and in differing distributions. ► Prey density and distribution mediated sensory information available to whelks. ► Time averaging allowed whelks to maintain foraging success to differing prey distributions. ► Prey distribution mediated foraging efficiency in a density-specific manner. ► Whelks may occupy specific sensory niches to reduce competition with other odour-mediated predators.