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In the Mediterranean, we find a mosaic of natural and cultural landscapes, where a variety of forest management practices created intermediate disturbance regimes that potentially increased biodiversity values. Nonetheless, it is essential to understand the species' long-term response to the dynamic management in agroecosystems, since the species tolerance to disturbance can change throughout the life cycle. Mammalian carnivores can be sensitive to human disturbance and are an essential part of ecosystems due to their regulatory and community structuring effects. We investigated the spatial response of five mesocarnivores species to spatially- and temporally- varying management practices in an agroforestry landscape. More specifically, we assessed the mesocarnivores' temporal changes in space use by implementing multi-season occupancy models in a Bayesian framework, using seasonal camera-trapping surveys for a 2-year period. All species had a weak response of local extinction to forestry management and livestock grazing pressure. For forest-dwelling species, occupancy was higher where productivity of perennial vegetation was high, while colonization between seasons was positively associated with vegetation cover. For habitat generalist species, we found that occupancy in the wet season increased with the distance to cattle exclusion plots. Most of these plots are pine stands which are subject to forestry interventions during winter. During the 2-year period we found seasonal fluctuations in occupancy for all species, with an overall slight decrease for three mesocarnivore species, while for the two forest-dwelling species there was an increase in occupancy between years. The weak species response to management practices supports the importance of traditional management for upholding a diverse mesocarnivore community in agroforestry systems but could also reflect these species' ecological plasticity and resilience to disturbance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occupancy models are commonly used in statistical ecology to model binary detection/non-detection data. These hierarchical models make a distinction between detection/non-detection and presence/absence by treating true occupancy as a latent process. In this paper, we propose a multi-species, multi-season occupancy model to jointly model detection/non-detection data on multiple species. Existing literature has shown that models that account for various sources of dependence in the latent occupancy process improve estimation, especially in the single-survey setting. However, the detection process in the model has not received much attention, even though detectability of a species is expected to relate to the detectability of other species and to detectability in previous time periods. In this work, we propose a model to capture this phenomenon by incorporating a multivariate temporal random effect in the detection process. We perform a simulation study to show that the proposed model yields more accurate inference than models that only use covariates to quantify detection. We apply our model to detection/non-detection data on three species—Thomson's gazelle, zebra, and wildebeest—in Serengeti National Park of Tanzania, Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Ecology & Rural Environment is the property of Journal of Ecology & Rural Environment Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Understanding which detection methods to use is important to endangered species research and management and often requires a balance between costs and benefits. We investigated the efficiency and costs of camera-trapping, live-trapping, and sign surveys (vole feces, clippings, runways) as methods for detection of the endangered Amargosa voles (Microtus californicus scirpensis). Although each method documented the presence of voles, baited camera-trapping was the most sensitive method for detecting voles and provided insights into vole activity and behavior. Although live-trapping had 100% specificity and provided data and access to biological samples that could not be collected through other methods, it had reduced sensitivity (85.2%) compared to camera-traps and incurred potential risk to individual voles. Sign surveys were the least sensitive method (78.9%) and suffered in that some types of sign could not accurately be attributed to species. Additionally, sign surveys could not inform about how recently vole activity had occurred because Amargosa vole feces can persist in the environment for long periods of time and degrade 4.7 times faster in wetter marshes than dryer sites. Sign and fecal surveys are best suited for occupancy and distribution surveys at a coarse time scale (≥1-year intervals) but are likely to have low predictive values in years when vole abundance is low. Cost comparisons indicate the highest per session cost and moderate habitat impact for camera trapping, highest overall cost and highest impact to habitat for live-trapping, and lowest expense and habitat impact for sign surveys but relatively low yield in data quality.

Species diversity depends on the capacity of species to coexist, and when these share similar ecological requirements some degree of partitioning of the ecological niche is expected. Within the order Carnivora, direct and indirect interspecific interactions shape community structure and composition. Although strong negative interactions (e.g., interspecific killing) are expected between large carnivores and subordinate species, mesocarnivores that dominate most human disturbed landscapes can still strongly compete for resources given their similar body size and energy requirements. To identify the mechanisms of coexistence between mesocarnivore species in a Mediterranean landscape we assessed the ecological niche overlap between five species (Vulpes vulpes, Meles meles, Martes foina, Herpestes ichneumon, Genetta genetta), by simultaneously measuring the space, time, and trophic resource use. The multi-species occupancy model fit to camera-trapping data revealed spatial co-occurrence between most species’ pairs and an avoidance pattern between only stone marten and Eurasian badger (78 % probability of a negative effect). Using genetically identified scats, we assessed trophic niche breadth and overlap. Niche breadth was narrow for red fox, Eurasian badger, and stone marten, given these species consumed almost exclusively fruits and arthropods, and so trophic niche overlap was high. For the genet and the mongoose, the consumption of different food resources (e.g., mammals, birds, and reptiles) increased niche breadth and decreased the niche overlap with the other sympatric species. Finally, niche segregation was more significant along the temporal axis, since the mongoose has a diurnal activity pattern and the remaining carnivore species, although mostly nocturnal, had small asynchronies in the activity peaks which could decrease the chance of direct encounters. Therefore, our results suggest that similar habitat preferences and ecological requirements rather than interspecific competition shape the mesocarnivores’ resource use in this landscape. Nonetheless, fine-scale temporal segregation seems the main mechanism to facilitate coexistence, together with small differences in trophic resource use, especially for species with high spatial and temporal overlap.

Context: Canid-pest ejectors (CPEs) offer a compromise between broadscale free-baiting programs that can have non-target impacts and more target-specific methods such as trapping and shooting, which are inefficient across larger scales. CPEs target wild canids, such as red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and wild dogs (Canis spp.). However, there are situations where red fox control is required, but the risk to non-target canids, such as dingoes and other dogs, prevents the use of broadscale baiting. Aims: We field-trialled and refined a collar for the CPE that was designed to allow red foxes to trigger CPEs, but prevent dingoes and medium–large-sized dogs from doing so. Methods: We deployed uncollared and collared CPEs paired with camera-traps across two study areas in central Australia, and assessed which taxa triggered CPEs and whether the activity rates, behaviour and CPE triggering rates of five taxa (red foxes, wild dogs, feral cats (Felis catus), corvids (Corvus spp.), and varanids (Varanus spp.)) differed between CPEs with and those without collars. Key results: With a simple modification to our original collar design, a red fox was able to trigger collared CPEs. Collared CPEs were triggered by wild dogs when they were set with the bait head 1 cm below the rim of the collar, but not when they were set with the bait head at 2 cm below the rim. Uncollared CPEs were triggered by wild dogs (97.03% of triggers), red foxes (1.98%) and corvids (0.99%). Activity rates of the study taxa towards CPEs did not differ between collared and uncollared CPEs. However, behavioural analyses suggested that red foxes and wild dogs showed more caution around collared CPEs. Conclusions: We present proof-of-concept that deploying CPEs inside a collar increases the target specificity of this device by excluding wild dogs, while allowing red foxes to access the bait head. However, our data suggest that the addition of a collar may reduce interaction rates of red foxes and wild dogs with CPEs. Implications: The collared CPE provides a control method for red foxes that reduces the risk to dingoes and other medium–large-sized dogs and may allow for greater landholder participation in red fox management. Non-target impacts of baiting programs may prevent the participation of landholders in red fox control. We field-trialled a collar for the canid-pest ejector (CPE) that prevented wild dogs from triggering the CPE, while allowing foxes to do so. Collared CPEs have the potential to improve the efficacy of baiting programs for foxes and encourage greater participation by landholders, particularly where impacts on non-target canids are considered undesirable. Photograph by Northern Territory Government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Conservation strategies often involve reintroducing species back into parts of their historic range where they no longer occur. Reintroduction efforts can be complicated when there are native species present that might compete with the reintroduced species. Exploring the relationship between the existing and reintroduced species can improve the success of reintroduction efforts. Using information from camera-traps, we examined the extent to which reintroduced oryx and native gazelle display similar activity and space use patterns in Sidi Toui National Park, Tunisia. The two species exhibited minimal spatial overlap within the park and favoured habitats with different vegetation features. Activity patterns relative to time of day and season were similar for oryx and gazelle. Both antelope species were most active at dawn and dusk. Seasonally, activity was lowest for both when conditions were hot and dry and was highest following the rainy season in spring, when new vegetation emerged. The differences in space use patterns can facilitate coexistence between the two species of grazers in Sidi Toui National Park. Habitat diversity can be a key determinant for allowing reintroduced and native species to coexist. Examining the distribution patterns and spatiotemporal niche overlap of sympatric species is crucial for understanding core concepts in community ecology and for the effective management of multi-species habitats within shared landscapes. Using data from 26 camera-traps, recorded over two years (December 2020–November 2022), in Sidi Toui National Park (STNP), Tunisia, we investigate habitat use and activity patterns of the scimitar-horned oryx (n = 1865 captures) and dorcas gazelle (n = 1208 captures). Using information theory and multi-model inference methods, along with the Pianka index, we evaluated the habitat characteristics influencing species distribution and their spatial niche overlap. To delineate daily activity patterns, we applied kernel density estimation. Our findings indicate minimal spatial overlap and distinct environmental factors determining suitable habitats for each species. Furthermore, we found significant temporal niche overlaps, indicative of synchrony in daily activity patterns, with both species showing peak activity at dawn and dusk. Our results indicated that oryx and gazelle differ in at least one dimension of their ecological niche at the current density levels, which contributes to their long-term and stable coexistence in STNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote monitoring of communal marking sites, or latrines, provides a unique opportunity to observe undisturbed scent marking behaviour of African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus). We used remote camera trap observations in a natural experiment to test behavioural scent mark responses to rivals (either familiar neighbours or unfamiliar strangers), to determine whether wild dogs exhibit the "dear enemy" or "nasty neighbour" response. Given that larger groups of wild dogs represent a greater threat to smaller groups, including for established residents, we predicted that the overarching categories "dear enemy" vs. "nasty neighbour" may be confounded by varying social statuses that exists between individual dyads interacting. Using the number of overmarks as a metric, results revealed an interaction between sender and receiver group size irrespective of familiarity consistent with this prediction: in general, individuals from large resident packs overmarked large groups more than they overmarked smaller groups, whereas individuals from smaller packs avoided overmarking larger groups, possibly to avoid detection. Monitoring a natural system highlights variables such as pack size that may be either overlooked or controlled during scent presentation experiments, influencing our ability to gain insights into the factors determining territorial responses to rivals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits of some Anacardiaceae tree species are important sources of food and water for vertebrate species in seasonal tropical forest. During a monitoring study using camera-traps in a tropical dry forest of the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, we documented tree visitation and fruit consumption in the 'Chupandillo' Cyrtocarpa procera by medium to large-sized terrestrial mammals species. From 2012 to 2017, we established cameras-traps in front of six adult chupandillo trees during 385–499 days. A total of 4,831 photographs were obtained during a total of 2,706 days. The camera-traps recorded 12 mammals species visiting, passing in front the tree, or consuming its fruits. The white-tailed deer, cotton rabbit, collared peccary and gray fox were the species that presented the highest number of visit events, with the two ungulate species recorded visiting all of the sampled trees. These species, as well as coati, consumed fruits of this tree species from September to October. The white-tailed deer visited during the day, while the collared peccary mainly visited during the twilight-night time period. We propose that fruits of C. procera are an important resource for mammals in this region, in particular for white-tailed deer and collared peccary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the first records of Cuniculus paca for the Chaco or Western Region of Paraguay. The evidence consists of 18 records (63 photos and 12 videos) obtained through a camera trap located in a riparian forest of the Humid Chaco. The species showed solitary and nocturnal behavior and appeared near a stream that flows into the Paraguay River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of exotic species is currently the second largest cause of extinction. In this sense the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) stands out, given its wide distribution and adaptive plasticity. Understanding the dynamics of dog occurrence in natural areas is of major importance in order to understand the impacts on native fauna. In this work, we aimed to carry out an updated survey of the presence of dogs in the Area of Relevant Ecological Interest Mata of Santa Genebra, focusing on the number of individuals, their periods and areas of greatest activity. Sampling was carried out using camera-traps on nine different trails in the area, with a sampling effort of 2754 camera-days. A total of 316 mammal records were obtained of which 28% documented the presence of dogs. The results point to greater activity of dogs in areas of extensive trails, clearings and forest edge, in addition to the preference for night periods and rainy season. The results were compared with the periods of activity of native non-flying mammals of the area, obtaining a similar occupation of places and periods, both of domestic dogs and native fauna. Finally, proposals were presented to mitigate this problem in the area.

Abstract Remote monitoring of communal marking sites, or latrines, provides a unique opportunity to observe undisturbed scent marking behaviour of African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus). We used remote camera trap observations in a natural experiment to test behavioural scent mark responses to rivals (either familiar neighbours or unfamiliar strangers), to determine whether wild dogs exhibit the “dear enemy” or “nasty neighbour” response. Given that larger groups of wild dogs represent a greater threat to smaller groups, including for established residents, we predicted that the overarching categories “dear enemy” vs. “nasty neighbour” may be confounded by varying social statuses that exists between individual dyads interacting. Using the number of overmarks as a metric, results revealed an interaction between sender and receiver group size irrespective of familiarity consistent with this prediction: in general, individuals from large resident packs overmarked large groups more than they overmarked smaller groups, whereas individuals from smaller packs avoided overmarking larger groups, possibly to avoid detection. Monitoring a natural system highlights variables such as pack size that may be either overlooked or controlled during scent presentation experiments, influencing our ability to gain insights into the factors determining territorial responses to rivals.

Abstract Camera‐trapping is considered a cost‐efficient method to monitor wildlife, but relevant performance constraints remain. We assessed performance and cost‐benefit for 2 recent technological innovations: (i) a wireless transmission system where cameras communicate in a network, and (ii) using solar panels as a camera's sole power supply. The maximum distance between cameras that ensured wireless connection varied between 2 km in open habitats and 335 m in forest habitats with dense tree cover. The cost of using the wireless transmission system was lower for surveys run for >45 days and for >15 sampling units (i.e., camera‐trap sites). For surveys longer than 15 days, using the wireless transmission system required, on average, 8 fewer days of fieldwork. We measured the performance of the solar panels in terms of capture probability, and the solar‐powered cameras (β = −0.015 ± 0.01 in the log scale) outperformed battery‐powered cameras (β = −0.103 ± 0.005) as capture rate decreased more slowly, particularly for nighttime events (difference in capture probability of the solar‐powered relative to the battery‐powered cameras at night, β = 0.09 ± 0.01). We consider that, although camera‐traps with wireless transmission can provide a return on investment for a wide range of survey designs, the constraints on maximum distance for transmission are a limitation. Despite the higher cost, we recommend solar‐powered camera‐traps as they had improved performance with a higher proportion of species events captured than by battery‐powered cameras.

We identified individual jaguars from a database of camera-trap images collected in the Eastern Amazonian rainforest using the artificial intelligence software HotSpotter. We identified individuals from 131 of 217 images. Twenty-five different individuals were identified based on images of the left side. We compared our results with the results from an undergraduate study that manually identified 18 jaguar individuals from 53 images also used in the present study. One of the 18 individuals was found to be misclassified based on HotSpotter. We found HotSpotter to be useful in identifying individual jaguars in our study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examining the distribution patterns and spatiotemporal niche overlap of sympatric species is crucial for understanding core concepts in community ecology and for the effective management of multi-species habitats within shared landscapes. Using data from 26 camera-traps, recorded over two years (December 2020–November 2022), in Sidi Toui National Park (STNP), Tunisia, we investigate habitat use and activity patterns of the scimitar-horned oryx (n = 1865 captures) and dorcas gazelle (n = 1208 captures). Using information theory and multi-model inference methods, along with the Pianka index, we evaluated the habitat characteristics influencing species distribution and their spatial niche overlap. To delineate daily activity patterns, we applied kernel density estimation. Our findings indicate minimal spatial overlap and distinct environmental factors determining suitable habitats for each species. Furthermore, we found significant temporal niche overlaps, indicative of synchrony in daily activity patterns, with both species showing peak activity at dawn and dusk. Our results indicated that oryx and gazelle differ in at least one dimension of their ecological niche at the current density levels, which contributes to their long-term and stable coexistence in STNP.

The Himalayan goral (Naemorhedus goral) is facing threats, such as habitat degradation and human disturbances, which are increasing. To aid their conservation, it is crucial to understand the anthropogenic and ecological factors that influence Himalayan goral occurrence. We conducted a study in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal using remote cameras to detect Himalayan gorals during late winter (March 2022) and spring (May 2022). Himalayan gorals were more likely to be detected in late winter (p = 0.253 ± 0.064) compared to spring (p = 0.187 ± 0.056) and the effects of anthropogenic and ecological factors on Himalayan gorals varied between these periods. During late winter, the distance to the nearest human settlement (βsettlement = 1.971 ± 1.147) and the number of other wild ungulates detected (βungulates = 2.954 ± 1.193) had a positive effect on Himalayan goral occurrence. In contrast, only the number of wild ungulate detections (βungulates = 3.262 ± 1.292) had a positive impact on Himalayan goral occupancy during spring. The number of livestock and carnivores detected during each season did not influence Himalayan goral occupancy. Our results highlight the importance of considering ecological and anthropogenic variables in understanding occupancy and distribution of Himalayan gorals to inform species conservation strategies.

Simple Summary: The adventitious nature of the rufous colour of bearded vultures was first suggested in the XIXth century, and proved conclusively almost a century later. However, for more than 20 years, no advances about this mysterious behaviour have been made, and observational studies are needed to discover its function. Here, with the help of camera-traps and GPS transmitters we provide new observations about the regular use of a ferruginous spring situated in the Spanish Pyrenees by the species, providing new insights on the behavioural ecology of bearded vultures. Different hypotheses have been proposed to explain the function of cosmetic behaviour of bearded vultures, being the signalling individual dominance status the most accepted. However, no advances have been made in understanding this mysterious behaviour, in part due to the secrecy of this species. With the help of camera traps and GPS devices we monitored the use of a ferruginous spring in the Pyrenees (Spain) providing new insights into this aspect of their behavioural ecology. Most of the visits (93.5%) involved a single bearded vulture and bathing behaviour only occurred when a single individual was present, confirming their secretive behaviour. A total of 50% of individuals that visited the site were non-adults, suggesting that cosmetic coloration functions as an attenuating signal that may also benefit subordinate individuals. Future studies with the help of new technologies could help to disentangle some questions about the real function of cosmetic coloration and their social relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Forest Thrush (FT), Turdus lherminieri, is a secretive, ground-dwelling forest bird species of conservation concern, endemic to only four Caribbean islands. Factors influencing habitat selection and abundance by FT have been seldom documented so far. We assessed variation in the presence and abundance of FT in various forested habitats in Guadeloupe. To that end, we deployed 5-camera-trap arrays over 14 days on 24 different survey stations resulting in 1680 trap days. We observed FT more frequently at camera trap stations where rainforest dominated, with local abundance declining with increasing canopy openness. Furthermore, temperature was the most important factor affecting the presence of FT at our study sites. FT was essentially diurnal, with some activity at dawn and dusk. We document for the first-time spatial co-occurrence between FT and potential mammal predators. FT co-occurred positively with rats and negatively with cats. Although FT is globally listed as near threatened by IUCN, the species the species appeared to be relatively abundant in Guadeloupe, possibly as a consequence of the suspension of hunting since 2014 and/or the almost total protection of the Guadeloupe tropical rainforest. We recommend the use of camera traps to improve knowledge for the conservation status of the species in other part of its area of distribution and to provide additional information on the potential impact of exotic predatory mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper documents the first record of chromatic anomalies in Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu) and the third in the Raccoon (Procyon lotor) for Mexico. The findings were made during monitoring conducted between 2009 and 2021, using camera traps, primarily in the Sierra Madre del Sur ecoregion of the state of Guerrero, Mexico. Procyon lotor was recorded between November 5th and December 1st, 2019, in riparian vegetation of a deciduous tropical forest (17°47'35"N, 98°39'59"W, 1134 m altitude). Meanwhile, Pecari tajacu was recorded on June 7th and July 22nd, 2021, in an abandoned crop clearing (17°38'12"N, 100°40'50"W; 1532 m altitude). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Applying the most appropriate sampling method is essential for estimating population size. Sampling methods and techniques to estimate abundance may be limited by environmental characteristics, species traits, specific requirements of the techniques, or the economic resources to carry out the sampling. Thus, evaluating multiple sampling methods in monitoring populations is essential for establishing effective conservation strategies. In this study, we compare two of the most commonly used sampling methods with the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) as the type species. On the one hand, we compared the minimum number of individuals (NI) detected by camera trapping, identifying individuals by morphological characteristics with the minimum number of individuals detected by DNA faeces and a set of 16 microsatellites. On the other hand, we estimated abundance by performing an N-mixture model using information from camera-traps to study the relationship between abundance and the minimum number of individuals detected. Results showed that the minimum NI provided by camera trapping was slightly higher than that of DNA faecal genotyping, with 23.66 and 19 individuals, respectively. In addition, abundance and NI detected by camera trapping showed a positive relationship. In contrast, there was a non-significant negative relationship between NI detected by faecal DNA and abundance estimates. Our results suggest using the minimum number of photo-identified individuals as a reliable index to study variation in red fox abundance when other advanced methods cannot be implemented in the study of population size. However, it is necessary to improve the methods of faecal sampling to study the relationship with camera-trap data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banded civet Hemigalus derbyanus is a Near Threatened small carnivore species distributed in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, peninsular Thailand, and Myanmar. However, the status of banded civet in Myanmar is uncertain, as it has not been recorded there since 1914. Here, we report the first photographic evidence of banded civet in Htaung Pru Reserved Forest of Tanintharyi Region, which is located in the far northwest from the known historical location in Myanmar, and contributes to our knowledge of the current distribution of banded civet in Southeast Asia. Protection and conservation of lowland rainforest by using community-based conservation approaches is critically important for the persistence of this species in this particular area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pangolins are one of the most threatened mammal groups, as a result of habitat loss and exploitation for their meat, scales, and other body parts. However, there is a lack of quantitative data on pangolin populations; their behaviour and ecology make them challenging to survey. We undertook systematic camera-trap surveys of the 5260 km2 World Heritage Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon, sampling 305 sites in eight grids over 28,277 camera-trap days. We recorded 768 images of giant pangolin in 99 independent detections at 57 sites (RAI = 0.35), and 2282 images in 355 detections (RAI = 1.26) of white-bellied pangolin at 137 sites. Ground-dwelling giant pangolins were largely confined to the core of the Reserve. Semi-arboreal white-bellied pangolins were predominantly distributed in the northeast, east and south of the Reserve. Lower occupancy in the west and northwest could partly be due to pressures from human settlements around the Hydromekin Dam and Sud-Cameroun Hévéa rubber plantation. Our study suggests that at the ground-level the two species do not spatially segregate, and both were active throughout the night. We found high diel activity overlap, although there was a significant difference in activity peak times. There was also evidence of white-bellied pangolin possibly exhibiting fine-scale behavioural avoidance of giant pangolin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present evidence of scent marking in the large‐antlered muntjac (Muntiacus vuquangensis). Given the importance of scent marking in individual recognition among ungulates, this behavior may serve to communicate the fitness cost of antagonistic interactions among rival males and could serve as a mechanism for mate assessment among females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Widespread distribution of livestock in the natural habitats of large carnivores may negatively impact carnivore populations by reducing wild prey availability and increasing human–carnivore conflicts. In this study, we used camera‐trapping data collected in the temperate forests of the Taihang Mountains in North China during 2016–2019 to examine whether and how free‐ranging cattle affected habitat use and Diel activity patterns of the endangered North Chinese leopard (Panthera pardus japonensis) and its 2 wild prey species, Siberian roe deer (Capreolus pygargus), and wild boar (Sus scrofa). Residents were also interviewed to record livestock depredation events by leopards during 2015–2019. We found that roe deer spatially avoided sites frequented by cattle, but wild boar did not. In the growing seasons, leopards shared habitats with cattle and tended to increase their diurnal activities where cattle were present. All 3 study species exhibited fine‐scale spatial‐temporal segregation to cattle. Leopards selectively preyed on calves over adult cattle and livestock depredation frequency was positively correlated with the detection rates of cattle and wild prey, but not that of leopard. These findings not only show that through behavioral adaption large carnivores and their ungulate prey may persist under livestock disturbance, but also highlight how important proper livestock management is for conserving North Chinese leopards in this region. To enhance livestock management and mitigate human–leopard conflicts, we recommend specific actions, such as better guarding of free‐ranging cattle or adoption of a captive farming system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammals' resting sites (dens) are important features of their ecology. Eurasian otter Lutra lutra resting sites are strictly protected by UK and European legislation and are ostensibly identified from associated field‐signs. This legislation is difficult to apply given the poor understanding of resting sites coupled with the lack of evidence supporting a field‐sign signature. We aimed to use camera‐trap data to identify resting sites, investigate whether field‐signs differed between resting and non‐resting sites and describe behaviours recorded on camera‐traps that are associated with resting. An evidence‐based approach to identifying resting sites of Eurasian otter Lutra lutra from camera‐trap and field‐sign data camera‐trap data showed that otters frequently visited potential resting sites, characterised by a very short time within the structure (often < 4 min). Resting sites were characterised by longer durations (often hours) during the daytime and night‐time. Based on these data, six of our 26 sites were identified as resting sites. Modelling suggested that no single field‐sign had a clear association with resting sites. However, we found a hitherto unrecognised distinction between otter latrines (defecation sites) and spraint (scent‐marking) sites, and that camera‐trap observations of latrine behaviour and bedding collection were exclusive to resting sites. As bedding and latrines are not always visible, presence of either indicates a resting site but no interpretation can be drawn from their absence, so camera‐trapping would be recommended to identify resting site status. Data simulations found that camera‐trapping for 38 d in winter, followed by 38 d in spring, was the optimal approach for a 95% chance of detecting a rest across all resting sites. Ours is the first study to identify standards and expectations for surveys using camera‐trap and field‐signs at Eurasian otter resting sites. Our novel account of their resting activity facilitates better interpretation of legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Biology is the property of Instituto Internacional de Ecologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Coexistence mechanisms such as temporal niche partitioning among sympatric wildlife species may be impacted by continued human disturbance and invasive species. White-tailed deer expansion in North America, a product of landscape and climate change, may alter other species’ diel activity and have implications for conservation of native species. We asked: 1) To what degree does invasive white-tailed deer temporal activity overlap with other ungulate species (mule deer and moose) in landscapes with high human disturbance, versus landscapes with low human disturbance? 2) To what degree does invasive white-tailed deer and predator activity (wolves, grizzly bears, and coyotes) overlap in landscapes with high human disturbance versus landscapes with low human disturbance? Using detection data from infrared remote cameras, we compared a high-disturbance (2019–2020) and a low-disturbance (2009–2010) landscape in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. We used activity pattern analysis to quantify temporal overlap between sympatric mammal species and white-tailed deer. We found that contrary to our hypotheses, sympatric ungulate species maintained activity and temporal overlap with white-tailed deer in both landscapes. Predators did not match the temporal activity of white-tailed deer in the high-disturbance landscape as closely as in the low-disturbance landscape. We conjecture ungulates may be prioritizing periods of optimal foraging or reducing predation risk rather than temporal niche partitioning from invasive-white-tailed deer. Predator species may be more sensitive to anthropogenic disturbance than ungulates and adjust their temporal activity in high-disturbance landscapes. Native ungulates’ lack of diel activity adaptation to white-tailed deer invasions is an important piece of the behavioural puzzle about how western Nearctic systems change with anthropogenic disturbance and human-mediated range shifts.

Contact between wild animals and farmed livestock may result in disease transmission with huge financial, welfare and ethical consequences. Conflicts between people and wildlife can also arise when species such as wild boar (Sus scrofa) consume crops or dig up pasture. This is a relatively recent problem in England where wild boar populations have become re-established in the last 20 years following a 500-year absence. The aim of this pilot study was to determine if and how often free-living wild boar visited two commercial pig farms near the Forest of Dean in southwest England. We placed 20 motion-sensitive camera traps at potential entry points to, and trails surrounding, the perimeter of two farmyards housing domestic pigs between August 2019 and February 2021, covering a total of 6030 trap nights. Forty wild boar detections were recorded on one farm spread across 27 nights, with a median (range) of 1 (0 to 7) night of wild boar activity per calendar month. Most of these wild boar detections occurred between ten and twenty metres of housed domestic pigs. No wild boar was detected at the other farm. These results confirm wild boar do visit commercial pig farms, and therefore, there is potential for contact and pathogen exchange between wild boar and domestic pigs. The visitation rates derived from this study could be used to parameterise disease transmission models of pathogens common to domestic pigs and wild boars, such as the African swine fever virus, and subsequently to develop mitigation strategies to reduce unwanted contacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal density is a fundamental parameter in ecology and conservation, and yet it has remained difficult to measure. For terrestrial mammals and birds, camera‐traps have dramatically improved our ability to collect systematic data across a large number of species, but density estimation (except for species with natural marks) is still faced with statistical and logistical hurdles, including the requirement for auxiliary data and large sample sizes, and an inability to incorporate covariates.To fill this gap in the camera‐trapper's statistical toolbox, we extended the existing Random Encounter Model (REM) to the multi‐species case in a Bayesian framework. This multi‐species REM can incorporate covariates and provides parameter estimates for even the rarest species. As input to the model, we used information directly available in the camera‐trap data. The model outputs posterior distributions for the REM parameters—movement speed, activity level, the effective angle and radius of the camera‐trap detection zone, and density—for each species. We applied this model to an existing dataset for 35 species in Borneo, collected across old‐growth and logged forest. Here, we added animal position data derived from the image sequences in order to estimate the speed and detection zone parameters.The model revealed a decrease in movement speeds, and therefore day‐range, across the species community in logged compared to old‐growth forest, whilst activity levels showed no consistent trend. Detection zones were shorter, but of similar width, in logged compared to old‐growth forest. Overall, animal density was lower in logged forest, even though most species individually occurred at higher density in logged forest. However, the biomass per unit area was substantially higher in logged compared to old‐growth forest, particularly among herbivores and omnivores, likely because of increased resource availability at ground level. We also included body mass as a variable in the model, revealing that larger‐bodied species were more active, had more variable speeds, and had larger detection zones.Caution is warranted when estimating density for semi‐arboreal and fossorial species using camera‐traps, and more extensive testing of assumptions is recommended. Nonetheless, we anticipate that multi‐species density estimation could have very broad application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different hypotheses have been proposed to explain the function of cosmetic behaviour of bearded vultures, being the signalling individual dominance status the most accepted. However, no advances have been made in understanding this mysterious behaviour, in part due to the secrecy of this species. With the help of camera traps and GPS devices we monitored the use of a ferruginous spring in the Pyrenees (Spain) providing new insights into this aspect of their behavioural ecology. Most of the visits (93.5%) involved a single bearded vulture and bathing behaviour only occurred when a single individual was present, confirming their secretive behaviour. A total of 50% of individuals that visited the site were non-adults, suggesting that cosmetic coloration functions as an attenuating signal that may also benefit subordinate individuals. Future studies with the help of new technologies could help to disentangle some questions about the real function of cosmetic coloration and their social relevance.

Ungulates have undergone major declines in Central and West African forests as a result of bushmeat trade and habitat loss. Monitoring forest ungulate status is a critical conservation need. We undertook a systematic camera-trap survey of the 5260 km2 Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon's largest protected area. We deployed cameras at 305 sites in eight grids across the reserve over 28,277 camera-trap days. We recorded 30,601 independent detections of 12 species of forest ungulate. The blue and Peters' duikers were the most abundant, accounting for 82% of all ungulate detections, both with occupancy >85% in all survey grids. The black-fronted duiker was relatively widespread but rare. The white-bellied duiker and water chevrotain were found mostly in the southern part of the reserve. There were very few detections of sitatunga, forest buffalo and bongo. Our results suggest ecological partitioning among the more abundant duikers based on activity pattern and body size. The reserve faces many pressures including illegal subsistence and commercial hunting. Community surveillance and partnerships, with improved law enforcement are among measures being implemented by the Cameroon government to enhance security and ensure retention of the reserve's World Heritage status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sapo National Park, Liberia's largest protected area, comprises an area of 1804 km2 within the Upper Guinea forest ecosystem, a global biodiversity hot spot. Our baseline camera‐trap study revealed 32 medium‐to‐large mammal species, including ten Upper Guinea forest endemics, within the park. Results show important populations of threatened antelopes, particularly zebra duiker and Jentink's duiker, along with bay duiker, black duiker, Ogilby's duiker and Maxwell's duiker. Water chevrotain and lowland bongo were also recorded. Camera‐trap images of giant and white‐bellied pangolins, western chimpanzee, pygmy hippopotamus and forest elephant collected during this study further confirm the high conservation value of the site. The ecology of the antelope community is investigated, noting the diurnal activity pattern of zebra duiker and the nocturnal activity of Jentink's duiker, in contrast to previous studies. Both species preferred lower altitude primary forest. Ogilby's duiker was the only antelope that showed a preference for higher altitude forest and was found to be more common than the similar‐sized black duiker and bay duiker. Sapo National Park faces many threats including habitat degradation, poaching for bushmeat and animal parts, and illicit gold mining. Commercial logging and agriculture in the buffer and surrounding forested areas threatens connectivity and increases human–wildlife conflict. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammals exhibit several types of diel activity pattern, including nocturnal, diurnal, crepuscular, and cathemeral. These patterns vary inter- and intra-specifically and are affected by environmental factors, individual status, and interactions with other individuals or species. Determining the factors that shape diel activity patterns is challenging but essential for understanding the behavioral ecology of animal species, and for wildlife conservation and management. Using camera-trap surveys, we investigated the species distributions and activity patterns of terrestrial mammals on the Shiretoko Peninsula, Hokkaido, Japan, with particular focus on brown bears and sika deer. From June to October 2019, a total of 7,530 observations were recorded by 65 camera-traps for eight species, including two alien species. The diel activity pattern of brown bears was diurnal/crepuscular, similar to that of bears in North America, but different from European populations. Bear observations were more frequent during the autumnal hyperphagia period, and adult females and sub-adults were more diurnal than adult males. In addition, bears inside the protected area were more diurnal than those outside it. These findings suggest that appetite motivation, competitive interactions between conspecifics, and human activities potentially affect bear activity patterns. Similar to other sika deer populations and other deer species, the diel activity patterns of sika deer were crepuscular. Deer showed less variation in activity patterns among months and sex-age classes, while adult males were observed more frequently during the autumn copulation period, suggesting that reproductive motivation affects their activity patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive mesopredators are responsible for the decline of many species of native mammals worldwide. Feral cats have been causally linked to multiple extinctions of Australian mammals since European colonization. While feral cats are found throughout Australia, most research has been undertaken in arid habitats, thus there is a limited understanding of feral cat distribution, abundance, and ecology in Australian tropical rainforests. We carried out camera‐trapping surveys at 108 locations across seven study sites, spanning 200 km in the Australian Wet Tropics. Single‐species occupancy analysis was implemented to investigate how environmental factors influence feral cat distribution. Feral cats were detected at a rate of 5.09 photographs/100 days, 11 times higher than previously recorded in the Australian Wet Tropics. The main environmental factors influencing feral cat occupancy were a positive association with terrain ruggedness, a negative association with elevation, and a higher affinity for rainforest than eucalypt forest. These findings were consistent with other studies on feral cat ecology but differed from similar surveys in Australia. Increasingly harsh and consistently wet weather conditions at higher elevations, and improved shelter in topographically complex habitats may drive cat preference for lowland rainforest. Feral cats were positively associated with roads, supporting the theory that roads facilitate access and colonization of feral cats within more remote parts of the rainforest. Higher elevation rainforests with no roads could act as refugia for native prey species within the critical weight range. Regular monitoring of existing roads should be implemented to monitor feral cats, and new linear infrastructure should be limited to prevent encroachment into these areas. This is pertinent as climate change modeling suggests that habitats at higher elevations will become similar to lower elevations, potentially making the environment more suitable for feral cat populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Invasive mesopredators are responsible for the decline of many species of native mammals worldwide. Feral cats have been causally linked to multiple extinctions of Australian mammals since European colonization. While feral cats are found throughout Australia, most research has been undertaken in arid habitats, thus there is a limited understanding of feral cat distribution, abundance, and ecology in Australian tropical rainforests. We carried out camera‐trapping surveys at 108 locations across seven study sites, spanning 200 km in the Australian Wet Tropics. Single‐species occupancy analysis was implemented to investigate how environmental factors influence feral cat distribution. Feral cats were detected at a rate of 5.09 photographs/100 days, 11 times higher than previously recorded in the Australian Wet Tropics. The main environmental factors influencing feral cat occupancy were a positive association with terrain ruggedness, a negative association with elevation, and a higher affinity for rainforest than eucalypt forest. These findings were consistent with other studies on feral cat ecology but differed from similar surveys in Australia. Increasingly harsh and consistently wet weather conditions at higher elevations, and improved shelter in topographically complex habitats may drive cat preference for lowland rainforest. Feral cats were positively associated with roads, supporting the theory that roads facilitate access and colonization of feral cats within more remote parts of the rainforest. Higher elevation rainforests with no roads could act as refugia for native prey species within the critical weight range. Regular monitoring of existing roads should be implemented to monitor feral cats, and new linear infrastructure should be limited to prevent encroachment into these areas. This is pertinent as climate change modeling suggests that habitats at higher elevations will become similar to lower elevations, potentially making the environment more suitable for feral cat populations.

Although forest-dependent, tropical island endemic birds are particularly at risk of extinction, they remain largely understudied. In this context, we assessed the spatial occupancy, local abundance, and diel activity in three forest columbid species of hunting interest, the Ruddy Quail-Dove (RQD), Geotrygon montana; the Bridled Quail-Dove (BQD), Geotrygon mystacea; and the Zenaida Dove (ZD), Zenaida aurita, in Guadeloupe (French West Indies), using 5 camera-traps over 14 days on 24 survey stations, resulting in 1680 trap days. The number of observed RQD was too small to allow for a statistical comparison between habitats. BQD were more frequently observed at camera-trap stations that were dominated by tropical rainforest than those that were dominated by flooded forest. Conversely, ZD were more frequently observed at stations that were dominated by flooded forest and dry forest than at those that were dominated by tropical rainforest. High temperatures negatively affected the abundance of BQD, while the abundance of ZD was significantly lower in tropical rainforests compared to dry and flooded forests and tended to increase with canopy openness. The three species were diurnal. BQD significantly positively co-occurred spatially and temporally with small Indian mongooses, Urva auropunctata, whereas the temporal and spatial distribution of ZD overlapped significantly with that of domestic dogs, Canis familiaris, and domestic cats, Felis catus. Our results provide firm evidence that RQD remains scarce and is largely outnumbered by BQD in Guadeloupe which is in contrast with has been reported for other Caribbean islands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Annamites ecoregion harbors exceptional levels of species richness and endemism, but intensive snaring has decimated populations of terrestrial mammals. Ungulates, such as muntjacs, are susceptible to snaring, and in need of effective conservation action. At least three muntjacs occur sympatrically in the region: the Annamite dark muntjac species complex Muntiacus rooseveltorum/truongsonensis, the northern red muntjac Muntiacus vaginalis, and the large-antlered muntjac Muntiacus vuquangensis. We conducted a landscape-scale systematic camera-trapping survey in Nakai-Nam Theun National Park to gather information on the ecology and distribution of these muntjacs. We analyzed camera-trap records within an occupancy framework to evaluate responses to environmental and anthropogenic variables, and to predict distributions across the protected area. We found varying responses to the covariates, indicating complex drivers of occurrence, though all three muntjac had higher occupancies in more inaccessible areas. Mean (95%) PAO in the protected area was higher for large-antlered muntjac (0.33 [0.22–0.49]), followed by Annamite dark muntjac (0.28 [0.18–0.39]), and then northern red muntjac (0.27 [0.15–0.42]). Large-antlered muntjac and northern red muntjac were widespread, while dark muntjac was restricted to a single high elevation area. Overall, our results provide new insights into muntjac ecology, distribution, and population status, and we discuss how this information can be used to inform conservation efforts. Given the high occupancies that we found for the Critically Endangered large-antlered muntjac, we argue that Nakai-Nam Theun National Park may be vital for the long-term survival of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the ecoregions that comprise the high-Andean zone of the Tropical Andes, the Puna and the Yungas stand out for covering a large part of the Peruvian Eastern Andes. Located in the ecotone of these two ecoregions, the Pampa Hermosa National Sanctuary (PHNS) houses one of the priority areas for conservation in Peru. However, the biodiversity of the high-Andean zone of the sanctuary and its surroundings remains poorly studied. Thus, through camera traps and transects, we sought to inventory for the first time the medium and large mammals from the high-Andean region of the PHNS and its buffer zone. We recorded 11 native and three domestic species of medium and large mammals. The richness of native mammals sampled reached 91.7% of the estimated richness (S est.= 11.99 ± 1.85). Among the native species Odocoileus virginianus had the highest relative frequency (56%). We recorded three endemic mammals from the Tropical Andes, Cuniculus taczanowskii, Tremarctos ornatus, and Pudu mephistopheles. The observed richness was higher than most surveys of medium and large mammals carried out in the Puna-forest ecotone in Peru, where the reported richness ranged from 4 to 13 species. In addition, our records of Leopardus pardalis and Eira barbara are the highest for all distribution of these two carnivores. Our results showed that more than 90% of the species recorded were found in it, demonstrating that the entire high-Andean region of the PHNS and its surroundings has an important value for the local mammal community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Reliable, cost-effective monitoring methods are essential for managing wildlife populations. Scat-and-sign surveys (i.e. monitoring defecation, animal scratching, footprints, food remains) are a rapid, low-cost, non-invasive monitoring approach, but unquantified biases and uncertainties associated with these methods have caused researchers to doubt their reliability. Aims: We sought to quantify how richness, occupancy and activity estimates derived from a long-term camera-trap study differed from those of scat surveys in the same locations, to determine scat-survey reliability and model bias corrections. Methods: We used transect-based scat surveys at 110 sites in the temperate forests of southern Tasmania (Australia), to estimate occupancy, activity and community richness for common, ground-dwelling vertebrates. These results were compared with estimates derived from a long-term passive camera-trap study at the same sites. In addition, time-lapse imagery taken with the camera traps was used to monitor the persistence of rufous-belled pademelon (Thylogale billardierii) and Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) scats in relation to environmental correlates. Key results: Scat persistence differed between these two species. The half-life of S. harrisii scats was 113 days, compared with 63 days for T. billardierii. Generalised linear modelling showed that scat surveys were most efficacious at sites with little disturbance and homogenous substrates. Overall, scat surveys consistently underestimated site occupancy and richness relative to the camera traps (μ = 2.7:1), but this bias was inconsistent, with the ratio exceeding 15 for the arboreal brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). Scats were most reliably detected for large, trail-using mammals such as S. harrisii , T. billardierii , and common wombat (Vombatus ursinus). Scat surveys were less useful for the surveillance of low-density and arboreal species. Scats were uncommon for the two bird species examined, but alternative superb lyrebird (Menura novaehollandiae) signs were detected reliably. Conclusions: Scat surveys reliably detected large, trail-using mammals. However, estimates of activity were poorly correlated between camera traps and scat surveys. Implications: When used appropriately, scat surveys can provide an effective and cheap 'snapshot' index for wildlife monitoring, especially if the species-specific biases have been calibrated for the vertebrate community and environment under monitoring. Scat surveys are a rapid, non-invasive wildlife monitoring method, but their use has historically been avoided due to associated error and potential biases. We have quantified these by comparing scat surveys with pre-established camera-trap data for richness, occupancy and activity estimates. We found that scat surveys markedly underestimated richness and activity relative to cameras, but they can provide a cheap 'snapshot' index of occupancy for medium to large, trail-using mammals. Photograph captured by a camera trap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The jaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi) is a small felid with a historical range from central Argentina through southern Texas. Information on the current distribution of this reclusive species is needed to inform recovery strategies in the United States where its last record was in 1986 in Texas. From 2003 to 2021, we conducted camera‐trap surveys across southern Texas and northern Tamaulipas, México to survey for medium‐sized wild cats (i.e., ocelots [Leopardus pardalis], bobcats [Lynx rufus], and jaguarundi). After 350,366 trap nights at 685 camera sites, we did not detect jaguarundis at 16 properties or along 2 highways (1050 km2) in Texas. However, we recorded 126 jaguarundi photographic detections in 15,784 trap nights on 2 properties (125.3 km2) in the northern Sierra of Tamaulipas, Tamaulipas, México. On these properties, latency to detection was 72 trap nights, with a 0.05 probability of detection per day and 0.73 photographic event rate every 100 trap nights. Due to a lack of confirmed class I sightings (e.g., specimen, photograph) in the 18 years of this study, and no other class I observations since 1986 in the United States, we conclude that the jaguarundi is likely extirpated from the United States. Based on survey effort and results from México, we would have expected to detect jaguarundis over the course of the study if still extant in Texas. We recommend that state and federal agencies consider jaguarundis as extirpated from the United States and initiate recovery actions as mandated in the federal jaguarundi recovery plan. These recovery actions include identification of suitable habitat in Texas, identification of robust populations in México, and re‐introduction of the jaguarundi to Texas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fishing cat's persistence in a 'semi-aquatic niche' suggests the evolution of a successful hunting strategy. We describe it for the first time by analysing 197 camera-trap video-clips, collected from a participatory-science initiative, within an ethogram framework. The cats spent ∼52% of the time sitting and waiting for prey (fishes) to come nearer and took limited attempts to hunt (3.89%) in deeper waters (in which the upper portions of the cat's body were submerged), where its hunting success was found to be 42.86%. In shallow waters, it adopted a predominantly active mode of hunting (∼96%) to flush out prey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In forest ecosystems, particularly those in the tropics, the occurrence of rapid transformation impacts the wildlife. Most of the studies on fauna have been conducted on pristine and protected areas, with less consideration of lands and landscapes dedicated to diverse human activities. This is particularly true for medium and large-sized mammals, which perform specific functions that help to maintain ecosystem stability, while supporting ecosystem services. In 1997, the government of Mexico implemented the land policy of management of flora and fauna species through the establishment of Management Units for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Wildlife (UMA, by its Spanish acronym). This land policy allows private and community landowners to benefit directly from the management, use, and conservation of wildlife. This study analyzes the presence of mammals using camera-traps in 17 UMA in the states of Veracruz, Tabasco and Chiapas, in southeastern Mexico. The total number of mammal species recorded was 27, with a sampling effort of 3067 days/trap in Veracruz (with 19 species), 3238 days/trap in Chiapas (with 22 species) and 1068 days/trap in Tabasco (with 17 species). Six of the following species are in danger of extinction: in Chiapas, the tapir (Tapirus bairdii) was recorded in tropical high evergreen forest and tropical montane cloud forest, and the jaguar (Panthera onca) was recorded in tropical montane cloud forest, the margay (Leopardus wiedii), the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) and the tayra (Eira barbara) were recorded in all three states, while the northern tamandua (Tamandua mexicana) was recorded only in Veracruz and Tabasco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A male red deer was repeatedly observed scavenging in eastern Spain. This is the first time this behaviour of the red deer being recorded by means of camera traps. Scavenging behaviour of herbivores may have implications for wildlife biologists and managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally damage causing animals, particularly mesopredators, are subjected to lethal control where they occur on small stock farms. This situation prevails in South Africa in relation to Black-backed jackals. However, despite their ubiquity, no attempt has been made to develop a repeatable, practical method to estimate Black-backed jackal population sizes. We estimated the Black-backed jackal population density on Telperion Nature Reserve in Mpumalanga Province using a combination of camera traps and established population estimation models (random encounter model (REM) and generalized random encounter model (gREM)) that do not require the individual identification of animals. Furthermore, we attempted to estimate all metrics for REM and gRem models exclusively from camera trap data and compared the estimates from these models, generated using GPS collar velocity metrics, to those based on home range metrics. We found that density estimates based on camera trap data combined with GPS velocity estimates returned the most plausible estimates of Black-backed jackal population. We suggest that using the method trialled in this study may present a relatively simple and practical way to estimate Black-backed jackal population density. The applicability of this method across a variety of landscapes should be trialled. If proved practicable, it would allow for consistent monitoring of Black-backed jackal populations using a repeatable density estimation method and may provide a basis for future management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Brazil is the world's richest country in biodiversity, including mammal species. In the Brazilian Cerrado biome, mammalian diversity is vast, with about 251 species, 32 of them are endemic and 22 listed as threatened species. In this work, we investigated species diversity of medium- and large-sized mammals in the private protected area RPPN Pontal do Jaburu (RPPN-PJ) and its surroundings, which is a flooded area located in an important biological corridor in the Cerrado-Amazon ecotone zone, a priority area for biodiversity conservation in Brazil. We used camera-trapping, active search (night and day), and track survey during dry season (Apr – Aug 2016). We recorded 29 mammal species, being the Carnivora order the most representative with 11 species. Regarding threat status, 35.7% of the recorded species were listed as threatened in Brazil and 32.1% worldwide. We highlight the high relative frequency of threatened species records such as Tapirus terrestris, Panthera onca, Blastocerus dichotomus, Pteronura brasiliensis, Priodontes maximus, and other, as well as the presence of the newly described aquatic mammal species Inia araguaiaensis. We stress the importance of RPPN-PJ and its surroundings for mammal conservation, which include complex habitats (wetlands) located in an important ecotone zone.

Arboreal mammals form a diverse group providing ecologically important functions such as predation, pollination and seed dispersal. However, their cryptic and elusive nature, and the heights at which they live, makes studying these species challenging. Consequently, our knowledge of rainforest mammals is heavily biased towards terrestrial species, limiting our understanding of overall community structure and the possible impacts of human-induced disturbance. We undertook the first in-depth appraisal of an arboreal mammal community in Southeast Asia, using camera-traps set in unlogged and logged tropical rainforest in Sabah, Borneo. Using paired canopy and terrestrial camera-traps at 50 locations (25 in unlogged forest, 25 in logged), we assessed the effectiveness of camera-trapping at characterising the arboreal versus terrestrial community, and tested the influence of strata and forest type on community structure and composition. The paired design detected 55 mammal species across 15,817 camera-trap nights (CTNs), and additional canopy sampling in a subset of trees added a further two arboreal species to the inventory. In total, thirty species were detected exclusively by terrestrial camera-traps, eighteen exclusively by canopy camera-traps, and nine by units set at both heights, demonstrating significant differences between arboreal and terrestrial communities. This pattern was strongest in unlogged forest, reflecting greater structural diversity of this habitat, but held in logged forest as well. Species accumulation curves revealed that canopy camera-trapping significantly boosted species inventories compared to terrestrial-only sampling, and was particularly effective at detecting gliding mammals, rodents and primates. Canopy inventories took longer to reach an asymptote, suggesting that a greater sampling effort is required when deploying canopy camera-traps compared to those set on the ground. We demonstrate that arboreal mammals in Borneo’s rainforest form a diverse and distinct community, and can be sampled effectively using canopy camera-traps. However, the additional costs incurred by sampling in the canopy can be substantial. We provide recommendations to maximise sampling effectiveness, while bringing down costs, to help encourage further study into one of the last frontiers of tropical forest research.

It has been suggested that Lasiurus cinereus cinereus migrates from summer roosts at higher latitudes to the coastal regions and southern latitudes in the United States and Mexico to overwinter, where little is known about its winter ecology. We found a hoary bat in a shrub in a conifer forest at high elevation in central Mexico in November 2019. We installed a camera trap and recorded it was hibernating for at least 12.7 days. Our record is by far the most southern hibernation location of tree bats in North America and it shows L. cinereus is capable of hibernating in a non-typical roost. We also open the possibility that camera traps may provide an additional, practical, and easy-to-use tool to study bat hibernation. Our finding expands the ultimate questions of why and where hoary bats decide to hibernate, migrate or both. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]