Daily and seasonal activity patterns of a felid assemblage in a forest-grassland mosaic in southern Brazil / Padrões de atividade diários e sazonais de uma assembleia de felinos em um mosaico de floresta-campo no sul do Brasil

The mechanisms of ecological segregation involved in the coexistence between Neotropical felids are the key to support strategies for conservation. Due to their inconspicuous and elusive behavior, camera trapping constitute a strategic, non-invasive method to study these species. The present work aimed to evaluate the daily and seasonal activity patterns of four felid species: Leopardus guttulus (Hensel, 1872), L. pardalis (Linnaeus, 1758), L. wiedii (Schinz, 1821) and Puma concolor (Linnaeus, 1771), in the Papagaios-de-Altitude Private Protected Area, state of Santa Catarina, southern Brazil. Data were collected from January 2018 to December 2019, using 25 sites of camera traps among the study area. We collected 624 independent records from L. guttulus (108), L. pardalis (55), L. wiedii (77) and P. concolor (384) in a sampling effort of 12,266 camera-traps/day. All species analysed showed a non-uniform distribution of daily activity, when considering the two years. We report the peak of seasonal activity for all species between the months of June and September, coinciding with the Araucaria nut harvest in the study area, and with the increase in populations of small rodents. We also report a high overlap between the activity patterns of the four species. The daily and seasonal activity patterns of the species in this study seem to reflect the intrinsic dynamics of the Araucaria Forest, as well as possible adaptations to prey availability.(AU)

Os mecanismos de segregação ecológica envolvidos na coexistência entre felídeos neotropicais são a chave para subsidiar estratégias para sua conservação. Por apresentarem comportamento inconspícuo e esquivo, as armadilhas fotográficas constituem um método não invasivo estratégico para estudá-los. O presente trabalho buscou avaliar o padrão de atividade diário e sazonal de quatro espécies de felídeos: Leopardus guttulus (Hensel, 1872), L. pardalis (Linnaeus, 1758), L. wiedii (Schinz, 1821) e Puma concolor (Linnaeus, 1771), na RPPN Papagaios-de-Altitude, no estado de Santa Catarina, sul do Brasil. Coletamos os dados através de 25 sítios de armadilhas fotográficas na área de estudo. Obtivemos 624 registros independentes de L. guttulus (108), L. pardalis (55), L. wiedii (77) e P. concolor (384) em um esforço amostral de 12.266 armadilhas/dia. Todas as espécies analisadas apresentaram distribuição de atividade diária não uniforme, quando considerados os dois anos. Relatamos o pico de atividade sazonal de todas as espécies entre os meses de junho a setembro, coincidindo com a safra de pinhão na região, e com o aumento nas populações de pequenos roedores. Também relatamos uma alta sobreposição entre os padrões de atividade das quatro espécies. A atividade diária e sazonal das espécies neste estudo parece refletir as dinâmicas intrínsecas da Floresta Ombrófila Mista, além de possíveis adaptações à disponibilidade de presas.(AU)

Mammal prevalence after the fire catastrophe in northeastern Pantanal, Brazil

Fire might occur under natural conditions in the Pantanal of Brazil; however, with climate change, severe periods of drought potentiated the devasting fires in 2020, resulting in substantial wildlife loss. Considering that mammal communities are strongly affected by fire and habitat alterations, the aim of this study was to evaluate possible differences in mammal diversity and the number of records before and one year after the fire in one region of the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil (Parque SESC Baía das Pedras - PSBP). The data collection was performed using camera trapping between 2015 and 2017 and 2021, together with visual field observations in PSBP. We observed that the mammal assemblage composition was similar before and one year after the fire. Four species were more or less frequent in burned areas than in unburned ones. Since the fire was controlled in this area, avoiding its total destruction, and the species that fled from the surrounding areas, which were completely burnt, might be using PSBP as a refuge while the vegetation recovers elsewhere. Therefore, the PSBP might have contributed to protecting mammal species after the fire and maintaining and conserving biodiversity on a regional scale in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil.

Patterns of vertebrate biodiversity in a tropical dry and mangrove forest matrix / Patrones de biodiversidad de vertebrados en una matriz de bosque seco tropical y manglar

Introduction: Tropical dry forests and mangroves, two of the world's most endangered ecosystems, each host a different set of environmental conditions which may support unique assemblages of species. However, few studies have looked at the unique vertebrate biodiversity in regions where both habitats occur side-by-side. Objective: To assess the vertebrate diversity and patterns of habitat usage in a mangrove and tropical dry forest matrix in an unprotected region of Northwestern Costa Rica. Methods: The study was conducted in a 7 km2 matrix of mangrove and tropical dry forests between Cabuyal and Zapotillal bays in Northwestern Costa Rica, south of Santa Rosa National Park. From September 2017 to March 2018, we used 13 automatic camera traps over 1 498 trap days to capture species utilizing the region and assess their patterns of habitat usage both spatially and temporally. Results: Seventy vertebrate species from 42 families in 27 orders were detected, including several globally threatened species. Over half of all species were detected in only one habitat, particularly amongst avian (78 %) and mammalian (42 %) species. Tropical dry forests hosted the greatest number of unique species and supported a greater percentage of herbivores than mangrove or edge habitats, which were dominated by carnivorous and omnivorous species. Mean detections per camera trap of all species increased significantly from the coldest and wettest month (Oct) to the hottest and driest months (Jan & Feb) in tropical dry forests. Sample-based rarefaction analysis revealed that survey length was sufficient to sample the tropical dry forest and edge habitats, though mangroves require further sampling. Conclusions: Taxa found to utilize different forest types may utilize each for different stages of their life cycle, moving between areas as environmental conditions change throughout the year. General patterns of global biodiversity favoring carnivore and omnivore usage of mangrove forests was confirmed in our study.

Introducción: Los bosques secos tropicales y los manglares, dos de los ecosistemas más amenazados del mundo, albergan cada uno un grupo de condiciones ambientales que pueden albergar conjuntos únicos de especies. Sin embargo, pocos estudios han analizado la biodiversidad única de vertebrados en regiones donde ambos hábitats se encuentran uno al lado del otro. Objetivo: Evaluar la diversidad de vertebrados y los patrones de uso del hábitat en una matriz de manglar y bosque seco tropical en una región no protegida del noroeste de Costa Rica. Métodos: El estudio se realizó en una matriz de 7 km2 de manglares y bosques secos tropicales en las bahías de Cabuyal y Zapotillal en el noroeste de Costa Rica, al sur del Parque Nacional Santa Rosa. De septiembre 2017 a marzo 2018, utilizamos 13 cámaras trampa automáticas durante 1 498 días trampa para capturar especies que utilizan la región y evaluar sus patrones de uso espacial y temporal del hábitat. Resultados: Se detectaron 70 especies de vertebrados de 42 familias y 27 órdenes, incluidas varias especies amenazadas a nivel mundial. Más de la mitad de todas las especies se encontraron en un solo hábitat, particularmente aves (78 %) y mamíferos (42 %). Los bosques secos tropicales albergan el mayor número de especies únicas y sustentan un mayor porcentaje de herbívoros que los hábitats de borde de manglares, que estaban dominados u hospedados por especies carnívoras y omnívoras. Las detecciones promedio por cámara trampa de todas las especies aumentaron significativamente desde el mes más frío y húmedo (octubre) hasta los meses más cálidos y secos (enero y febrero) en los bosques secos tropicales. El análisis de rarefacción basado en muestras reveló que la duración del estudio fue suficiente para muestrear los hábitats de bosque seco tropical y de borde, aunque los manglares requieren más muestreo. Conclusiones: Se encontró que los taxones pueden usar varios tipos de bosque en las diferentes etapas de su ciclo de vida, moviéndose entre áreas a medida que las condiciones ambientales cambian a lo largo del año. En nuestro estudio se confirmaron patrones generales de la biodiversidad global que favorecen el uso de los bosques de manglar por parte de carnívoros y omnívoros.

Survey of medium- and large-sized mammals in Atlantic Forest remnants of Conceição dos Ouros, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Conceição dos Ouros is located in the Mantiqueira mountain range (elevation: 831‒1443 m a.s.l.), State of Minas Gerais, southeast Brazil. The largest two Atlantic Forest remnants of the Municipality of Conceição dos Ouros total more than 2,000 ha and the main vegetation type is seasonal semi-deciduous forest, isolated by a matrix of agricultural fields and pasture. The Municipality does not have any protected areas and is located in a highly fragmented region, albeit considered of special importance for the conservation of terrestrial vertebrates in the State of Minas Gerais. Due to a cooperation with the Municipality of Conceição dos Ouros to carry out a survey of the local biodiversity, in this study we present the results of the survey of medium- and large-sized terrestrial mammals from the two forest remnants in the region. Sampling was performed from July 2019 to August 2021 and comprised a camera trap survey, active searching including direct (e.g. carcass sightings) and indirect (e.g. footprints and faeces) evidence of species presence and interviews with residents. Twenty-nine native and two non-native species were documented. Ten species are in some category of threat of extinction at regional, national or global levels. This is the first survey of the terrestrial mammal fauna in the area of Conceição dos Ouros and results could be helpful in designing conservation strategies at the local scale.

Spatial and Temporal Adaptations of Lowland Tapirs (Tapirus terrestris) to Environmental and Anthropogenic Impacts.

The Pantanal is one of the most conserved wetland ecosystems in Brazil and a hotspot for biodiversity. Over the last decades intensification of human activities has become a major threat to the stability of the unique landscape. To establish effective conservation actions, it is essential to understand how species respond to anthropogenic and environmental regional factors. Here, data from two multiannual camera trap studies, one in the northern Pantanal and one in the southern Pantanal, were used to investigate the effects of habitat characteristics, seasons, and human interactions on the spatial and temporal patterns of lowland tapirs (Tapirus terrestris). Between 2010 and 2017, camera traps were repeatedly placed in consistent grids covering protected areas and areas with cattle-ranching and tourism. Data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models and circular statistics. Activity patterns were similar and predominantly nocturnal in both areas, but tapirs indicated avoidance toward settlements and cattle and indicated habitat preferences only in the northern study area with less anthropogenic activities. The present study suggests that both environmental and anthropogenic factors can affect the species' spatial and temporal behavior, but tapirs show varying responses across regions and gradients of disturbance. The results indicate that adapting avoidance strategies might be more likely and effective in areas with low human pressure and sufficient protected areas as alternatives.

Medium- and large-sized mammals from Estação Biológica Fiocruz Mata Atlântica, Rio de Janeiro, south-eastern Brazil.

The Pedra Branca Forest is in a highly urbanised region of the central portion of Rio de Janeiro City and comprises the largest urban forest in the world (> 12,000 ha). The local flora and fauna are protected by three conservation units and the Estação Biológica Fiocruz Mata Atlântica (EFMA), which comprises 462 hectares on the east side of the remnant. The local biodiversity is still little known compared to other Atlantic Forest remnants from the Rio de Janeiro State. Here, we provide results of a survey of medium- and large-sized terrestrial mammals from the EFMA. In addition, we analysed the distribution of this fauna along three habitat types defined as Peridomicile, Transitional Forest and Forest Core. Sampling was performed from 2017 to 2020 and comprised a camera-trap survey, interviews with residents and local workers and occasional records. Results include occurrence records for 16 autochthonous and one allochthonous (Callithrix sp.) wild mammals, which are distributed into 14 families and seven orders, in addition to the presence of free-ranging domestic dogs and cats. Four species are in some category of threat of extinction at national or global levels. Amongst them, Leontopithecusrosalia (first record for the Rio de Janeiro City in more than a century) and Leopardusguttulus are classified as Vulnerable by IUCN. Most wild native species were registered in the three habitat types, but with differences in the frequency of records. Our results indicate that the presence of domestic dogs and cats influenced the species composition in each area, with Nasuanasua, Dasyproctaleporina and Didelphisaurita less frequent in places where domestic dogs and cats are more frequent. This is the first systematic effort to understand the occurrence and distribution of mid- and large-sized mammals in the Pedra Branca Forest.

High richness of non-volant mammals in a seasonal forest fragment in southeastern Brazil

The seasonal forest formations of the Atlantic Forest are a threatened and poorly known habitat. We present here a list of the non-volant mammals occurring in a 515­ha forest fragment known as Santa Maria and located in the Brazilian state of São Paulo. Our surveys are based on live trap captures, camera traps, and active searches for footprints, as well as secondary data. We list 29 species of non-volant mammals in the fragment, recorded between 1996 and 2021. One species found in the fragment, Leontopithecus chrysopygus, is globally endangered. Two species are classified as "vulnerable" in the global red list: Myrmecophaga tridactyla, and Tapirus terresris. One species, Panthera onca, is classified as "critically endangered" in São Paulo state. The red howler, Alouatta guariba, was not recorded after 1999 and has probably been extirpated in the fragment. We show that the number of non-volant mammal species in Santa Maria fragment is high, in relation to its size. The fragment is also in a strategic position, between the Morro do Diabo state park and the Black Lion Tamarin Ecological station, the two largest protected areas in the region. Considering its high mammal richness and its possible role as stepping stone for the local fauna, we recommend that the fragment become a protected area.(AU)

Limited influence of hunting on the activity patterns and habitat use of Pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) in agroecosystems of central Argentina.

The Pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) has suffered from hunting and human persecution for decades, both for fur trade or due to conflicts with livestock. However, studies assessing the effects of hunting pressure on this canid population ecology are lacking. In this work, we assessed the influence of several hunting-related variables on the daily activity patterns and habitat use of the Pampas fox. In private farms of central Argentina, we performed two camera-trapping surveys: one during the non-hunting season and other during the hunting season, distinguishing between sites with or without access by hunters. The habitat use of Pampas foxes did not vary between seasons, but their detectability was lower during the hunting season in habitats that allow humans to see foxes easily (i.e., habitats with high visibility). Pampas foxes selected dusk and night-time, increasing their activity at dusk hours on sites with hunting and showed differences in activity patterns related with the level of visibility of the habitat and to season. Hunting pressure may interact with anthropogenic habitat modifications and create ecological traps for the Pampas fox in agroecosystems.

Shifting cultivation and hunting across the savanna-forest mosaic in the Gran Sabana, Venezuela: facing changes.

BACKGROUND: Human encroachment and overexploitation of natural resources in the Neotropics is constantly increasing. Indigenous communities all across the Amazon, are trapped between a population rise and a hot debate about the sustainability of hunting rates. The Garden Hunting hypothesis states that shifting cultivation schemes (conucos) used by Amazon indigenous communities may generate favorable conditions, increasing abundance of small and medium wildlife species close to the 'gardens' providing game for indigenous hunters. METHODS: Here, we combined camera trap surveys and spatially explicit interview dataset on Pemón indigenous hunting scope and occurrence in a mosaic of savanna and forest in the Gran Sabana, Venezuela to evaluate to what extent the wildlife resource use corresponds to Garden Hunting hypothesis. We applied the Royle-Nichols model and binomial regression in order to: (1) assess whether abundance of small and medium wildlife species is higher close to conucos and (2) evaluate whether hunters select hunting localities based on accessibility to wildlife resources (closeness to conuco) more than wildlife abundance. RESULTS: We find mixed evidence supporting the Garden Hunting hypothesis predictions. Abundance of small and medium species was high close to conucos but the pattern was not statistically significant for most of them. Pemón seem to hunt in locations dominated by forest, where species abundance was predicted to be higher, than in close vicinity to conucos. Hunting scope was focused on the most abundant species located close to the conuco (Cuniculus paca), but also in less abundant and unavailable species (Crax alector, Tapirus terrestris and Odocoileus virginianus). CONCLUSIONS: Our research provided the first attempt of a systematic sampling survey in the Gran Sabana, generating a quantitative dataset that not only describes the current pattern of wildlife abundance, but sets the base-line to monitor temporal and spatial change in this region of highland Amazon. We discuss the applicability of the estimates generated as a baseline as well as, environmental challenges imposed by economic, social and cultural changes such as mining encroachment for wildlife management.

Environmental DNA metabarcoding as a useful tool for evaluating terrestrial mammal diversity in tropical forests.

Innovative techniques, such as environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, are now promoting broader biodiversity monitoring at unprecedented scales, because of the reduction in time, presumably lower cost, and methodological efficiency. Our goal was to assess the efficiency of established inventory techniques (live-trapping grids, pitfall traps, camera trapping, mist netting) as well as eDNA for detecting Amazonian mammals. For terrestrial small mammals, we used 32 live-trapping grids based on Sherman and Tomahawk traps (total effort of 10,368 trap-nights); in addition to 16 pitfall traps (1,408 trap-nights). For bats, we used mist nets at 8 sites (4,800 net hours). For medium and large mammals, we used 72 camera trap stations (5,208 camera-days). We identified vertebrate and mammal taxa based on eDNA analysis (12S region, with V05 and Mamm01 markers) from water samples, including a total of 11 3-km transects for stagnant water sampling and seven small streams for running water sampling. A total of 106 mammal species were recorded. Building on sample-based rarefaction and extrapolation curves, both trapping grids and pitfall were successful, recording 91.16% and 82.1% of the expected species for these techniques (~22 and ~9 species), and 16.98% and 6.60% of the total recorded mammal species, respectively. Mist nets recorded 83.2% of the expected bat species (~48), and 34.91% of the total recorded species. Camera trapping recorded 99.2% of the predicted large- and medium-sized species (~31), and 33.02% of the total recorded species. eDNA recorded 75.4% of the expected mammal species for this technique (~68), and 47.0% of the total recorded species. eDNA resulted in a useful tool that saves on effort and reduces sampling costs. This study is among the first to show the large potential of eDNA metabarcoding for assessing Amazonian mammal communities, providing, in combination with conventional techniques, a rapid overview of mammal diversity with broad applications to monitoring, management and conservation. By including appropriate genetic markers and updated reference databases, eDNA metabarcoding method can be extended to the whole vertebrate community.

Florivory by lizards on Tacinga inamoena (K.Schum.) N.P.Taylor & Stuppy (Cactaceae) in the Brazilian Caatinga / Florivoria por lagartos em Tacinga inamoena (K.Schum.) N.P.Taylor & Stuppy (Cactaceae) na Caatinga brasileira

Abstract: Florivory can alter plant reproductive success by damaging sexual reproductive structures and disrupting plant-pollinator interactions through decreased flower attractiveness. Here, we report new records of the cactus Tacinga inamoena flower consumption by the Tropidurus hispidus lizard in the Brazilian Caatinga. We monitored 53 flowers from 11 T. inamoena individuals with camera traps over a 1-year period, totalling 450 camera-days of sample effort. We detected four florivory events. In three of these events, flowers were entirely consumed or had their reproductive structures severely damaged, leading to no fruit formation. Florivory events occurred in the morning, right after anthesis, in flowers near the ground, and lizards did not climb the cactus. Our results suggest that T. hispidus florivory on T. inamoena could have a negative impact on fruit set, since the consumed flowers were entirely destroyed. However, the long-term effects of florivory by lizards on T. inamoena reproductive success in the Caatinga still needs to be elucidated.

Resumo: A florivoria pode alterar o sucesso reprodutivo da planta através de danos às estruturas reprodutivas sexuais e interrupção das interações planta-polinizador por meio da diminuição da atratividade das flores. Aqui, relatamos novos registros de consumo de flores da cactácea opuntióide Tacinga inamoena pelo lagarto Tropidurus hispidus na Caatinga brasileira. Nós monitoramos 53 flores de 11 indivíduos de T. inamoena com armadilhas fotográficas por um período de um ano, totalizando 450 dias-câmera de esforço amostral. Detectamos quatro eventos de florivoria. Em três desses eventos, as flores foram totalmente consumidas ou tiveram suas estruturas reprodutivas severamente danificadas, não levando à formação de frutos. Os eventos de florivoria ocorreram pela manhã, logo após a antese, em flores próximas ao solo, e os lagartos não escalaram o cacto. Nossos resultados sugerem que a florivoria de T. hispidus em T. inamoena pode ter um impacto negativo na frutificação, uma vez que as flores consumidas foram totalmente destruídas. No entanto, os efeitos a longo prazo da florivoria por lagartos sobre o sucesso reprodutivo de T. inamoena na Caatinga ainda precisam ser elucidados.

The white-eared opossum failed to understand the parallel strings task: studying a primitive mammal under natural conditions.

The present study aimed to investigate if the white-eared opossum under natural conditions is capable of spontaneously solving the parallel string task. The experimental study with this primitive mammal was carried out on fifteen naïve animals of both sexes in northeastern Brazil. The parallel strings task was arranged in apparatuses with a vertical and a horizontal arrangement. A food reward (a slice of banana) was connected at the extremity of one string. A total of 505 videos were recorded using trap cameras. Despite the observed interest in obtaining the bait, the number of attempts to reach it and the use of the strings as support (trying to directly reach the bait in the vertical apparatus), the individuals were unable to pull any of the strings, suggesting that they could not understand the problem. The present study points to the relevance of using the species Didelphis albiventris and other species from this family (e.g., D. virginiana) to broaden our knowledge about the cognitive capacity of mammalian species. In addition, the opossums might represent an advisable path to better understand the evolution of cognition in this group.

Anteaters on the edge: giant and lesser anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla and Tamandua tetradactyla) at their geographic distributional limits in Paraguay / Osos en el borde: oso hormiguero gigante y oso melero (Myrmecophaga tridactyla y Tamandua tetradactyla) en sus límites de distribución geográfica en Paraguay

Las especies tienden a ser menos abundantes en los límites de su distribución geográfica. El oso hormiguero y el oso melero tienen su límite de distribución al Sur en Argentina y Paraguay, donde existe escasa información sobre su ecología y conservación. Presentamos un estudio realizado en la planicie de inundación del Río Paraguay, en un área dedicada a la ganadería sobre pasturas nativas en sabanas subtropicales inundables asociadas con isletas de bosques naturales, humedales y palmares. Estimamos parámetros referentes a preferencia de hábitat, comportamiento social y patrones de actividad de ambas especies a través del uso de cámaras trampa en tres tipos de bosques. Los resultados indican que el éxito de captura fue mayor en las islas de bosques subhúmedos inundables, comparado con los otros tipos de boques: bosques riparios asociados a humedales y bosques semicaducifolios mesoxerofíticos dominados por Schinopsis balansae. La mayoría de las capturas corresponde a osos solitarios, aunque ocasionalmente fueron observadas hembras cargando a sus crías durante el verano. Ambas especies mostraron un patrón de actividad nocturno y crepuscular con un pico de registros alrededor de la medianoche. Myrmecophaga tridactyla fue detectado entre 11°C y 26°C, mientras que Tamandua tetradactyla apareció entre 15°C y 23°C. Se recomiendan futuras investigaciones que incorporen datos tomados sistemáticamente en otros tipos de hábitats, incluyendo pasturas y matorrales, durante todas las estaciones del año.(AU)

Species tend to be less abundant at the limits of their geographic distribution. Giant and lesser anteaters have their southernmost limits in Argentina and Paraguay, where scarce information exists regarding their ecology and conservation. We present a study carried out in the Paraguay River floodplain, in an area dedicated to cattle rearing using native grasses in a subtropical flooded savanna associated with naturally occurring forest islets, wetlands and palm groves. Using camera-traps within three different forest types, we estimated parameters related to habitat preference, social behavior and activity patterns of both species. Results show that capture success was greater in the Floodable sub-humid forest islets (FSF), compared to other types of forests: Riparian forests associated with wetlands (W-RF) and Mesoxerophytic semi-deciduous forests dominated by Schinopsis balansae (MXF). Most detections corresponded to solitary anteaters, although mother-young pairs were occasionally observed during summer. Both species showed a nocturnal and crepuscular activity pattern with a peak of records around midnight. Myrmecophaga tridactyla was detected between 11°C and 26°C, while Tamandua tetradactyla occurred between 15°C and 23°C. Future research that incorporates systematically taken data in other different habitats, including grasslands and shrublands, during all seasons of the year is recommended.(AU)

Use of highway culverts by the water opossum (Chironectes minimus) in southeastern Brazil / Uso de drenagens fluviais sob rodovias pela cuíca dagua (Chironectes minimus) no sudeste do Brasil

Abstract The water opossum (Chironectes minimus) is a semi-aquatic mammal that is infrequently sampled in Atlantic rainforest areas in Brazil. Here we report on new records of C. minimus in the state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil, and comment on its behavior and ecology. We placed nine camera traps in culverts and cattle boxes under a highway, between 2017 and 2019. From a total of 6,750 camera-trap-days, we obtained 16 records of C. minimus (0.24 records/100 camera-trap-days) in two cameras placed in culverts over streams. Most of the records were made between May and August, in the dry season and in the first six hours after sunset. The new records are from a highly degraded area with some riparian forests. The records lie approximately 30 km away from the nearest protected area where the species is known to occur. We suggest that C. minimus has some tolerance to degraded habitats, as long as the water bodies and riparian forests are minimally preserved. The new records presented here also fill a distribution gap in western São Paulo state.

Resumo A cuíca d'agua (Chironectes minimus) é um mamífero semiaquático pouco amostrado em áreas de Mata Atlântica do Brasil. Neste estudo apresentamos novos registros de C. minimus no estado de São Paulo, sudeste do Brasil, e comentamos sobre seu comportamento e ecologia. Nós instalamos nove armadilhas fotográficas em drenagens fluviais e passagens de gado sob uma rodovia, entre 2017 e 2019. De um total de 6.750 armadilhas-fotográficas-dia, obtivemos 16 registros de C. minimus (0,24 registros/100 armadilhas-fotográficas-dia) em duas armadilhas fotográficas instaladas em drenagens fluviais. A maioria dos registros foram feitos entre maio e agosto, na estação seca, e nas seis primeiras horas da noite. Os novos registros são de uma área altamente degradada que possui algumas matas ciliares. Os registros estão a aproximadamente 30 km da área protegida mais próxima onde a espécie já foi registrada. Nós sugerimos que C. minimus possui certa tolerância a hábitats degradados, contanto que os corpos d'agua e as matas ciliares estejam minimamente preservados. Os novos registros aqui apresentados também preenchem uma lacuna amostral no oeste de São Paulo.

Relative abundances of medium and large mammals in the Cueva de Los Guácharos National Park (Huila, Colombia) / Abundância relativa dos mamíferos de médio e grande porte no Parque Nacional Cueva de Los Guácharos (Huila, Colômbia)

Abstract: Medium and large mammals are greatly affected by human activities, such as, habitat loss and hunting. In Colombia, these pressures have been most extensive in the dry and Andean forests. However, there is scare information available on the presence or abundance of these organisms for monitoring purposes. This study used photo-trapping cameras to determine the relative abundances of medium and large mammals in a mountain forest in the National Natural Park "Cueva de los Guacharos", Huila (Colombia). Additionally, we examined whether trail use by humans could affect the distribution of these organisms. The cameras were located every 500 meters along the trails in strategic locations. We obtained the relative abundance of 11 species, being medium-sized mammals the most frequent (Cuniculus paca, Dasyprocta punctata and Mazama rufina). We recorded the presence of mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque), dwarf red brocket (Mazama rufina) and oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus), which are found in a high threat category according to the IUCN. Activity patterns were reported for 4 different species including daytime, nocturnal and cathemeral activities. Finally, we concluded that large mammals avoided trails of frequent use, and although the relative abundance of mammals is not very high, this National Park is still supporting relevant biodiversity.

Resumo: Os mamíferos de porte médio e grande são fortemente afetados por atividades humanas, tais como a perda do seu habitat e a caça. Na Colômbia, essas pressões foram mais extensas em florestas secas e andinas. No entanto, há pouca informação disponível sobre a presença ou abundancia destes organismos para os processos de monitoramento. Este estudo usou câmeras com mecanismos remotos de "armadilhas-fotográficas" (photo-trapping) para determinar a abundância relativa de mamíferos de porte médio e grande numa floresta de montanha no Parque Nacional Natural "Cueva de los Guacharos", Huila Colômbia. Adicionalmente, examinamos se o uso das trilhas pelos humanos poderia afetar a distribuição destes organismos. As câmeras foram localizadas a cada 500 metros ao longo das trilhas e em locais estratégicos. Obtivemos a abundância relativa de 11 espécies, sendo os mamíferos de médio porte os mais frequentes (Cuniculus paca, Dasyprocta punctata and Mazama rufina). Se registrou a presença do tapir da montanha (Tapirus pinchaque), do veado vermelho (Mazama rufina) e do gato-do-mato (Leopardus tigrinus), que fazem parte da categoria de espécies em ameaça de acordo com a IUCN. Os padrões de atividade das 4 espécies diferentes foram relatados, incluindo atividades diurnas, noturnas e atividades cathemeral. Por fim, concluiu-se que os grandes mamíferos evitam as trilhas de uso frequente, e embora a abundância relativa de mamíferos não seja muito alta, este parque nacional ainda tem uma biodiversidade proeminente.

Anteaters on the edge: giant and lesser anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla and Tamandua tetradactyla) at their geographic distributional limits in Paraguay / Osos en el borde: oso hormiguero gigante y oso melero (Myrmecophaga tridactyla y Tamandua tetradactyla) en sus límites de distribución geográfica en Paraguay

Las especies tienden a ser menos abundantes en los límites de su distribución geográfica. El oso hormiguero y el oso melero tienen su límite de distribución al Sur en Argentina y Paraguay, donde existe escasa información sobre su ecología y conservación. Presentamos un estudio realizado en la planicie de inundación del Río Paraguay, en un área dedicada a la ganadería sobre pasturas nativas en sabanas subtropicales inundables asociadas con isletas de bosques naturales, humedales y palmares. Estimamos parámetros referentes a preferencia de hábitat, comportamiento social y patrones de actividad de ambas especies a través del uso de cámaras trampa en tres tipos de bosques. Los resultados indican que el éxito de captura fue mayor en las islas de bosques subhúmedos inundables, comparado con los otros tipos de boques: bosques riparios asociados a humedales y bosques semicaducifolios mesoxerofíticos dominados por Schinopsis balansae. La mayoría de las capturas corresponde a osos solitarios, aunque ocasionalmente fueron observadas hembras cargando a sus crías durante el verano. Ambas especies mostraron un patrón de actividad nocturno y crepuscular con un pico de registros alrededor de la medianoche. Myrmecophaga tridactyla fue detectado entre 11°C y 26°C, mientras que Tamandua tetradactyla apareció entre 15°C y 23°C. Se recomiendan futuras investigaciones que incorporen datos tomados sistemáticamente en otros tipos de hábitats, incluyendo pasturas y matorrales, durante todas las estaciones del año.

Species tend to be less abundant at the limits of their geographic distribution. Giant and lesser anteaters have their southernmost limits in Argentina and Paraguay, where scarce information exists regarding their ecology and conservation. We present a study carried out in the Paraguay River floodplain, in an area dedicated to cattle rearing using native grasses in a subtropical flooded savanna associated with naturally occurring forest islets, wetlands and palm groves. Using camera-traps within three different forest types, we estimated parameters related to habitat preference, social behavior and activity patterns of both species. Results show that capture success was greater in the Floodable sub-humid forest islets (FSF), compared to other types of forests: Riparian forests associated with wetlands (W-RF) and Mesoxerophytic semi-deciduous forests dominated by Schinopsis balansae (MXF). Most detections corresponded to solitary anteaters, although mother-young pairs were occasionally observed during summer. Both species showed a nocturnal and crepuscular activity pattern with a peak of records around midnight. Myrmecophaga tridactyla was detected between 11°C and 26°C, while Tamandua tetradactyla occurred between 15°C and 23°C. Future research that incorporates systematically taken data in other different habitats, including grasslands and shrublands, during all seasons of the year is recommended.

Anteaters on the edge: giant and lesser anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla and Tamandua tetradactyla) at their geographic distributional limits in Paraguay

RESUMEN Las especies tienden a ser menos abundantes en los límites de su distribución geográfica. El oso hormiguero y el oso melero tienen su límite de distribución al Sur en Argentina y Paraguay, donde existe escasa información sobre su ecología y conservación. Presentamos un estudio realizado en la planicie de inundación del Río Paraguay, en un área dedicada a la ganadería sobre pasturas nativas en sabanas subtropicales inundables asociadas con isletas de bosques naturales, humedales y palmares. Estimamos parámetros referentes a preferencia de hábitat, comportamiento social y patrones de actividad de ambas especies a través del uso de cámaras trampa en tres tipos de bosques. Los resultados indican que el éxito de captura fue mayor en las islas de bosques subhúmedos inundables, comparado con los otros tipos de boques: bosques riparios asociados a humedales y bosques semicaducifolios mesoxerofíticos dominados por Schinopsis balansae. La mayoría de las capturas corresponde a osos solitarios, aunque ocasionalmente fueron observadas hembras cargando a sus crías durante el verano. Ambas especies mostraron un patrón de actividad nocturno y crepuscular con un pico de registros alrededor de la medianoche. Myrmecophaga tridactyla fue detectado entre 11°C y 26°C, mientras que Tamandua tetradactyla apareció entre 15°C y 23°C. Se recomiendan futuras investigaciones que incorporen datos tomados sistemáticamente en otros tipos de hábitats, incluyendo pasturas y matorrales, durante todas las estaciones del año.

ABSTRACT Species tend to be less abundant at the limits of their geographic distribution. Giant and lesser anteaters have their southernmost limits in Argentina and Paraguay, where scarce information exists regarding their ecology and conservation. We present a study carried out in the Paraguay River floodplain, in an area dedicated to cattle rearing using native grasses in a subtropical flooded savanna associated with naturally occurring forest islets, wetlands and palm groves. Using camera-traps within three different forest types, we estimated parameters related to habitat preference, social behavior and activity patterns of both species. Results show that capture success was greater in the Floodable sub-humid forest islets (FSF), compared to other types of forests: Riparian forests associated with wetlands (W-RF) and Mesoxerophytic semi-deciduous forests dominated by Schinopsis balansae (MXF). Most detections corresponded to solitary anteaters, although mother-young pairs were occasionally observed during summer. Both species showed a nocturnal and crepuscular activity pattern with a peak of records around midnight. Myrmecophaga tridactyla was detected between 11°C and 26°C, while Tamandua tetradactyla occurred between 15°C and 23°C. Future research that incorporates systematically taken data in other different habitats, including grasslands and shrublands, during all seasons of the year is recommended.

Habitat use of the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) in Brazilian Amazon.

Amazonia forest plays a major role in providing ecosystem services for human and sanctuaries for wildlife. However, ongoing deforestation and habitat fragmentation in the Brazilian Amazon has threatened both. The ocelot is an ecologically important mesopredator and a potential conservation ambassador species, yet there are no previous studies on its habitat preference and spatial patterns in this biome. From 2010 to 2017, twelve sites were surveyed, totaling 899 camera trap stations, the largest known dataset for this species. Using occupancy modeling incorporating spatial autocorrelation, we assessed habitat use for ocelot populations across the Brazilian Amazon. Our results revealed a positive sigmoidal correlation between remote-sensing derived metrics of forest cover, disjunct core area density, elevation, distance to roads, distance to settlements and habitat use, and that habitat use by ocelots was negatively associated with slope and distance to river/lake. These findings shed light on the regional scale habitat use of ocelots and indicate important species-habitat relationships, thus providing valuable information for conservation management and land-use planning.

Mamíferos de médio e grande porte do Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres, sul do Brasil / Medium-to large-bodied mammalian fauna of Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres, Southern Brazil

A fauna de mamíferos está sob ameaça, principalmente na Floresta Atlântica da América do Sul. Essa é uma ecorregião fortemente ameaçada pela perda e fragmentação do hábitat, processos que influenciam diretamente o funcionamento dos ecossistemas. Desenvolvemos um inventário de mamíferos em um remanescente florestal no sul de Santa Catarina, Brasil, objetivando conhecer a composição e a diversidade de mamíferos de médio e grande porte. O estudo foi realizado em três transectos no Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres (PERB, 28º29'S e 49º15'W) através de armadilhas fotográficas, resultando em um esforço total de 630 armadilhas/dia. Obtivemos 106 registros independentes de nove espécies de mamíferos, das ordens Carnivora, Cingulata e Rodentia. Os resultados do nosso estudo aumentam o conhecimento sobre a diversidade e distribuição de mamíferos na Mata Atlântica subtropical. Além disso, podem ser utilizados para gerar subsídios para a implementação de estratégias de conservação na fauna de mamíferos, contribuindo para preencher parte da lacuna no conhecimento da distribuição de mamíferos de médio e grande porte em uma região pouco estudada.(AU)

Mammalian fauna is under several threat, mainly in Atlantic Forest of South America. Atlantic Forest is an ecorregion strongly endangered by habitat loss and fragmentation, processes that influencing directly the ecosystems functioning. We developed a mammalian inventory in a forest remnant in southern of Santa Catarina, Brazil, aiming to know the medium- to large-bodied mammalian composition and diversity. The study was carried in three transects within Parque Ecológico Rancho dos Bugres (PERB; 28º29S and 49º15W) through camera-traps, resulting in a total effort of 630 traps/day. We obtained 106 independent records of nine mammalian species, within the orders Carnivora, Cingulata and Rodentia. The results of our study can increase the knowledge about the mammalian diversity and distribution in the subtropical Atlantic Forest. Moreover, can be generated subsidies for the implementation of conservation strategies on mammalian fauna and contributing to filling part of the gap in the knowledge of distribution of medium- to large-bodied mammals in a region poorly studied.(AU)

Daily activity patterns of medium and large neotropical mammals during different seasons in an area of high altitude Atlantic rain forest in the South of Brazil / Padrão de atividade diária de mamíferos neotropicais de médio e grande porte em diferentes estações do ano em uma área de Floresta Ombrófila Mista no sul do Brasil

Camera traps were used to study the daily activity patterns of medium and large mammals (> 1 kg) in an area of Mixed Rain Forest (High Altitude Atlantic Forest) in the South of Brazil. These mammals are adapted to humid forest environments and exhibit seasonal behavior that is different to that of neotropical mammals living in tropical environments. Camera traps without bait were active day and night and through all seasons during the period from March 1999 to December 2010, with a sampling effort of 11,431 trap-days. Species that exhibited diurnal tendencies were Dasyprocta azarae, Eira barbara, Nasua nasua and Puma yagouaroundi. The nocturnal species observed were Dasypus novemcinctus, Tamandua tetradactyla and Procyon cancrivorus. Didelphis aurita, Leopardus pardalis and L. wiedii exhibited nocturnal tendencies. Cerdocyon thous tended to be more crepuscular than nocturnal. Puma concolor exhibited a tendency to nocturnal and crepuscular activity, but diurnal activity was also observed. Finally, the species Mazama gouazoubira and Leopardus tigrinus were defined as cathemeral. While many species exhibited a tendency for the majority of their activity to be concentrated at certain times, there was no time during which medium and large mammal activity entirely ceased, demonstrating a balanced daily distribution of activity in a Mixed Rain Forest. There were differences in activity patterns between different seasons, especially between summer and winter, with nocturnal species exhibiting a tendency to more intense activity during the first half of the night during the winter and diurnal species tending to be more active at the end of the day during the same season.(AU)

Mamíferos de médio e grande porte (> 1 kg) foram estudados para detecção de padrões de atividade diária em área de Floresta Ombrófila Mista (Floresta Atlântica de altitude) no sul do Brasil. Estes mamíferos adaptados a ambiente de floresta úmida em clima subtropical possuem comportamentos sazonais diferenciados de mamíferos neotropicais vivendo em ambientes tropicais. Armadilhas fotográficas permaneceram em atividade sem utilização de iscas, durante dia e noite ao longo de todas as estações do ano no intervalo entre março de 1999 e dezembro de 2010 com esforço amostral de 11.431 armadilhas-dia. As espécies com tendência diurna foram Dasyprocta azarae, Eira barbara, Nasua nasua e Puma yagouaroundi. As espécies noturnas foram Dasypus novemcinctus, Tamandua tetradactyla e Procyon cancrivorus. As espécies com tendência noturna foram Didelphis aurita, Leopardus pardalis e L. wiedii. Cerdocyon thous apresentou tendência mais crepuscular do que noturna. Puma concolor mostrou tendência noturna a crepuscular e com ocorrência de atividades diurnas. As espécies Mazama gouazoubira e Leopardus tigrinus foram consideradas catemerais. Apesar de as diversas espécies, em sua maioria, apresentarem tendência de concentração de atividade em determinados horários, não houve nenhum horário sem atividade de mamíferos de médio e grande porte, demonstrando equilíbrio de distribuição de atividade ao longo do dia em Floresta Ombrófila Mista. Houve diferenças nos padrões de atividade entre diferentes estações, especialmente entre verão e inverno, com espécies noturnas mostrando tendência a maior atividade durante a primeira metade da noite durante o inverno, enquanto espécies diurnas tenderam a ser mais ativas no final do dia durante esta estação.(AU)