ResourcesCamera trapping as a method to estimate population abundance of mammals in temperate grasslands of northern Uruguay: density calculation models applied to carnivore species
Project: The project aims to apply the explicit spatial model of capture-recapture and the random encounter model to estimate the densities of Pampa’s fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus), Crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) and, also, Geoffroy’s cat (Leopardus geoffroyi) populations. There are no reliable estimates of population density for these carnivore species. Therefore, the intention is to test these models with species that habitually inhabit these grasslands. The central interest of the project is the interaction between wildlife and livestock production, with the perspective to obtain alternatives between predators and local producers’ coexistence, where the predation of sheep by foxes and poultry by cats is permanently reported. The studies are carried out through the use of camera traps and direct collaboration with farmers.
Researchers: Dr. Diego Queirolo, Dra. Flávia Tirelli and Lic. Santiago Turcatti
