Cacería para autoconsumo durante la pandemia de COVID-19: el caso de las comunidades Matsigenkas del Parque Nacional del Manu

En este trabajo, se hipotetiza el periodo de aislamiento, la inmovilización y la migración inversa que sucedidos durante la pandemia del COVID-19 (años 2020 y 2021) incrementaron la capacidad de caza de las comunidades Matsigenkas asentadas en el Parque Nacional del Manu (PN Manu). Para esto, evaluamos los cambios en los patrones del volumen de extracción de la caza a través de un monitoreo participativo utilizando el modelo de monitoreo de la intensidad de cacería. Se evidenció que hubo un incremento de la capacidad de caza de las comunidades nativas. Los volúmenes más altos de extracción y el mayor incremento del número de cazadores, esfuerzo y área de cacería se dieron en el periodo 2020 - 2021, cuando las medidas de aislamiento e inmovilización fueron establecidas. Sin embargo, hubo una disminución de los indicadores para la temporada 2021 - 2022, año en que se flexibilizaron las medidas de aislamiento y se dio la reactivación económica, permitiendo que las personas retornaran a sus actividades económicas y educativas fuera del PN Manu. Se debe considerar que los efectos de solo un año de pandemia sobre los medios de subsistencia de las comunidades pudieron afectar la abundancia de la fauna silvestre, donde el mono maquisapa y mono choro (especies vulnerables) tuvieron altos incrementos de extracción. Por otro lado, nuestros resultados indicarían que el buen estado de conservación del PN Manu permitió la provisión de alimentos a las comunidades durante la pandemia. Se recomienda la planificación de programas que mitiguen los efectos negativos de pandemias o eventos semejantes, además se señala la importancia de medir el grado de resiliencia de las principales especies de caza, ya que el incremento de caza también podría tener efectos sobre la seguridad alimentaria de estas comunidades.

In this work, we hypothesize that the period of isolation, immobilization, and reverse migration that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic (years 2020 and 2021) increased the hunting capacity of the Matsigenka communities settled in Manu National Park (PN Manu). To evaluate this, we assessed changes in hunting volume patterns through participatory monitoring using the hunting intensity monitoring model. It was evident that there was an increase in the hunting capacity of Matsigenka communities. The highest extraction volumes and the greatest increase in the number of hunters, hunting effort, and hunting area occurred in the 2020-2021 period, the year in which isolation and immobilization measures were established. However, there was a decrease in the indicators for the 2021-2022 period, the year in which isolation measures were relaxed and economic reactivation occurred, allowing people to return to their economic and educational activities outside PN Manu. It should be considered that the effects of only one year of the pandemic on the livelihoods of the communities could have affected the abundance of wildlife, with vulnerable species such as maquisapa monkeys and choro monkeys experiencing high extraction rates. On the other hand, our results indicate that the good conservation status of PN Manu provided food provisions for the communities during the pandemic. Planning programs to mitigate the negative effects of pandemics or similar events is recommended, and the importance of measuring the resilience of key hunting species is emphasized, as increased hunting could also have effects on the food security of these communities.

Ecology of large felids and their prey in small reserves of the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico.

Jaguars and pumas are top-predator species in the Neotropics that are threatened by habitat destruction, illegal poaching of their body parts and their favored prey, and by the human-wildlife conflicts that arise when predators attack livestock. Much of the remaining felid habitat in the Americas is in protected nature reserves that are too small and isolated to support local populations. Surrounding forests therefore play a vital role in felid conservation. Successful long-term conservation of these two felids requires evidence-based knowledge of their biological and ecological requirements. We studied population distributions of jaguars and pumas and their prey in and between two small, private reserves of the Northern Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, with areas of 25 and 43 km2. During 2 years of camera trapping (2015 and 2016), we detected 21 jaguars, from which we estimated an average space requirement of 28-45 km2/individual. Dietary niche overlap exceeded random expectation. The most frequently occurring prey items in jaguar and puma diets were collared peccary and deer. Jaguar also favored nine-banded armadillos and white-nosed coati, while puma favored canids. Both felids avoided ocellated turkey. Overall, diet of jaguars was less species-rich, but similar in niche breadth, to that of pumas. A fluid use of space by both species, in 2015 tending toward mutual attraction and in 2016 toward partial exclusion of pumas by jaguars, combined with the high dietary overlap, is consistent with a dominance hierarchy facilitating coexistence. Jaguars and pumas favor the same prey as the people in local communities who hunt, which likely will intensify human-wildlife impacts when prey become scarce. We conclude that even small reserves play an important role in increasing the continuity of habitat for prey and large felids, whose generalist habits suppress interspecific competition for increasingly limiting prey that are largely shared between them and humans.

Los jaguares y pumas son las principales especies depredadoras del Neotrópico. Se encuentran amenazados por la destrucción de su hábitat, la caza furtiva de sus partes corporales, así como de sus presas favoritas, y por los impactos entre humanos y vida silvestre que surgen cuando estas especies atacan al ganado. Gran parte del hábitat protegido de los felinos restante en las Américas lo constituyen reservas naturales que son demasiado pequeñas y aisladas para por sí mismas sustentar las poblaciones locales de estas especies. Por lo tanto, los bosques circundantes juegan un papel vital para la conservación de estos felinos. La conservación exitosa a largo plazo de estas dos especies de felinos necesita conocimiento basado en evidencia de sus requerimientos biológicos y ecológicos. Estudiamos la distribución de poblaciones de jaguares y pumas, y sus presas, en dos pequeñas áreas protegidas privadas del norte de la península de Yucatán, México, con áreas de 25 y 43 km2, y en el área no protegida de 250 km2 que se encuentra entre ellas. Durante un estudio de foto-trampeo de dos años (2015 y 2016), detectamos 21 jaguares, a partir de los cuales estimamos requerimientos espaciales de 28­45 km2/individuo en promedio. La superposición entre nichos alimentarios superó las expectativas aleatorias. Las presas más frecuentes en las dietas del jaguar y el puma fueron el pecarí de collar y los venados. El jaguar también favoreció al armadillo de nueve bandas y coatí de nariz blanca, mientras que el puma favoreció a los cánidos. Ambos felinos evitaron al pavo ocelado. En general, la dieta de los jaguares presentó menor riqueza específica, pero similar amplitud de nicho a la de los pumas. Un uso fluido del espacio por parte de ambas especies hizo que en un año tendieran a tener atracción mutua y en otro a una exclusión parcial por parte de los jaguares a los pumas, lo cual, en combinación con la alta superposición alimentaria, es consistente con una jerarquía de dominancia que facilita la convivencia. Los jaguares y los pumas favorecieron las mismas presas que la gente que caza en las comunidades locales, lo que probablemente intensificará los impactos entre humanos y vida silvestre cuando las presas escaseen. Concluimos que incluso las reservas pequeñas desempeñan un papel importante en el aumento de la continuidad del hábitat para presas y grandes felinos, cuyos hábitos generalistas suprimen la competencia inter-específica por presas cada vez más limitadas que en gran parte comparten con los humanos.

Diversidad y amenazas de los mamíferos mayores en los bosques montanos de Huánuco, Perú / Diversity and threats of larger mammals in montane forests of Huánuco, Peru

Resumen En este trabajo los mamíferos mayores que habitan en los bosques montanos del departamento de Huánuco son estudiados para determinar la diversidad de especies y el estado actual de sus poblaciones. Se realizaron censos por transecto lineal y entrevistas entre los años 2014 y 2015, en seis sitios de muestreo correspondientes a cinco provincias. De los censos y exploraciones nocturnas se obtuvieron 439 registros pertenecientes a 37 especies; de estas, 4 son endémicas de Perú y 9 se encuentran en alguna categoría de conservación de la Legislación peruana. Los órdenes más representativos correspondieron a los carnívoros y primates con 11 y 10 especies, respectivamente, mientras que los avistamientos más frecuentes fueron de Tremarctos ornatus (43 registros), Nasua nasua (34 registros) y Cuniculus paca (32 registros). Los Índices de diversidad de Shannon-Wiener y de Simpson indican a Miraflores como el sitio de muestreo con más alta diversidad (H'=3.11, 1-D=0.95). La principal amenaza para los mamíferos mayores y otros componentes de la fauna mayor es la deforestación; no obstante, la presencia de especies indicadoras de la comunidad primaria de fauna como Tremarctos ornatus, Lagothrix flavicauda y otros primates, nos indican que todavía existen fragmentos de bosque primario relativamente extensos, en particular entre los ríos Chontayacu y Crisnejas en la provincia de Marañón y entre los ríos Oso mayo y Blanco en la provincia de Puerto Inca, por lo que deben ser tomados en cuenta para su conservación.

Abstract In this work, the larger mammals that inhabit the montane forests of the department of Huánuco are studied to determine the diversity of species and the status of their populations. Linear transect censuses and interviews were conducted between 2014 and 2015 on six sampling sites corresponding to five provinces. 439 records belonging to 37 species were obtained from the censuses and nocturnal explorations. Of these species, 4 are endemic to Peru and 9 are in some conservation category of Peruvian legislation. The most representative orders corresponded to carnivores and primates with 11 and 10 species, respectively, while the most frequent sightings were of Tremarctos ornatus (43 records), Nasua nasua (34 records) and Cuniculus paca (32 records). The Shannon-Wiener and Simpson Diversity Indices indicate Miraflores as the sampling site with the highest diversity (H'=3.11, 1-D=0.95). The main threat to larger mammals and other components of the larger fauna is deforestation; however, the presence of indicator species of the primary fauna community such as Tremarctos ornatus, Lagothrix flavicauda and others primates, indicate that there are still relatively extensive fragments of primary forest, particularly between the Chontayacu and Crisnejas rivers in the province of Marañón and between the Oso mayo and Blanco rivers in the province of Puerto Inca, so they must be taken into account for their conservation.

Prevalence of sustainable and unsustainable use of wild species inferred from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Unsustainable exploitation of wild species represents a serious threat to biodiversity and to the livelihoods of local communities and Indigenous peoples. However, managed, sustainable use has the potential to forestall extinctions, aid recovery, and meet human needs. We analyzed species-level data for 30,923 species from 13 taxonomic groups on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species to investigate patterns of intentional biological resource use. Forty percent of species (10,098 of 25,009 species from 10 data-sufficient taxonomic groups) were used. The main purposes of use were pets, display animals, horticulture, and human consumption. Intentional use is currently contributing to elevated extinction risk for 28-29% of threatened or near threatened (NT) species (2752-2848 of 9753 species). Intentional use also affected 16% of all species used (1597-1631 of 10,098). However, 72% of used species (7291 of 10,098) were least concern, of which nearly half (3469) also had stable or improving population trends. The remainder were not documented as threatened by biological resource use, including at least 172 threatened or NT species with stable or improving populations. About one-third of species that had use documented as a threat had no targeted species management actions to directly address this threat. To improve use-related red-list data, we suggest small amendments to the relevant classification schemes and required supporting documentation. Our findings on the prevalence of sustainable and unsustainable use, and variation across taxa, can inform international policy making, including the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.

Predominio del Uso Sustentable y No Sustentable de Especies Silvestres Inferido a partir de la Lista Roja de Especies Amenazadas de la UICN Resumen La explotación insostenible de especies silvestres representa una verdadera amenaza para la biodiversidad y el sustento de las comunidades locales y los pueblos indígenas. Sin embargo, el uso sostenible gestionado tiene el potencial para prevenir extinciones, auxiliar en la recuperación y satisfacer las necesidades humanas. Analizamos los datos a nivel de especie correspondientes a 30,923 especies de 13 grupos taxonómicos localizados en la Lista Roja de Especies Amenazadas de la Unión Internacional para la Conservación de la Naturaleza (UICN) para investigar los patrones del uso intencional de recursos biológicos. Usamos el 40% de las especies analizadas (10,098 de 25,009 especies pertenecientes a diez grupos taxonómicos con suficiente información). Los principales motivos para el uso de vida silvestre fueron como mascotas, animales de exhibición, horticultura y consumo humano. El uso intencional está actualmente contribuyendo a un riesgo elevado de extinción para 28 - 29% de las especies amenazadas o casi amenazadas (NT) (2,752 - 2,848 de 9,753 especies). El uso intencional también afectó al 16% de todas las especies utilizadas (1,597 - 1,631 de 10,098). Sin embargo, el 72% de las especies utilizadas (7,291 de 10, 098) pertenecen a la categoría de preocupación menor, de las cuales casi la mitad (3,469) también contaban con tendencias poblacionales estables o de mejoría. Las especies restantes no estaban documentadas como amenazadas por el uso de recursos biológicos, incluyendo al menos 172 especies amenazadas o NT con poblaciones estables o en aumento. Casi un tercio de las especies que tienen documentado el uso como una amenaza no cuentan con acciones de manejo para abordar directamente esta amenaza. Para mejorar la información de la lista roja relacionada con el uso, sugerimos pequeñas modificaciones a los esquemas relevantes de clasificación y la documentación de apoyo requerida. Nuestros descubrimientos sobre el predominio del uso sustentable y no sustentable, y la variación entre taxones, puede orientar la formulación de políticas internacionales, incluyendo a la Plataforma Intergubernamental de Políticas Científicas sobre Biodiversidad y Servicios Ecosistémicos, el Convenio sobre la Diversidad Biológica y la Convención sobre el Comercio Internacional de Especies Amenazadas.

Fauna silvestre con valor de uso en la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Huautla, Morelos, México / Wild fauna with use value in the Biosphere Reserve Sierra de Huautla, Morelos, Mexico

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue sistematizar las especies apropiadas, formas de apropiación y valores de uso asignados a la fauna silvestre en comunidades de la Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Huautla, México, mediante un análisis documental y trabajo de campo. Se registraron 46 especies con valor de uso pertenecientes a 31 familias. La clase con mayor número de especies apropiadas son las aves (42.5%), seguidas de los mamíferos (34%). El 64% de las especies se apropian con fines alimentarios y el 38.3% se utilizan para el tratamiento de enfermedades en la medicina tradicional. Otros usos son adornos, amuletos, elaboración de herramientas y como animal de compañía. La apropiación de fauna silvestre se realiza por medio de la cacería, la recolección y la pesca. Las armas de fuego como la escopeta es el principal instrumento para la cacería. También se utilizan perros, machetes, resorteras, tarrayas, anzuelos, nudos corredizos y se capturan manualmente. La apropiación puede ser una actividad oportunista u organizada por medio de las arreadas, espiadas, lampareadas, campeadas, acorralamiento y recolección manual. La apropiación de fauna silvestre es una actividad culturalmente arraigada en las comunidades de la reserva. Sin embargo, el análisis de la relación sociedad-fauna en la región es limitado, por lo que es necesario generar información que promueva el manejo sostenible del recurso faunístico.

Abstract The aims of this paper were the systematization of appropriated species, appropriation forms and assigned use values of wildlife species in the Biosphere Reserve of the Sierra de Huautla, Mexico, by means of documentary analysis and field work. We recorded 46 species with use value pertaining to 31 families. Birds accounted for the highest number of appropriated species (42.5%), followed by mammals (34%). Of the total species, 64% are appropriated for alimentary purposes and are used in the treatment of diseases in traditional medicine. Others are used as ornaments, talismans, in tool manufacture and as pet animals. Wildlife appropriation is achieved by hunting, collection and fishing. Fire arms such as shotguns are the main instrument used in hunting. Dogs, machetes, slingshots, nets, hooks, slipknots, are also used, or they are captured by hand. Appropriation can be an opportunistic or organized activity by means of "arreadas" (herding), "espiadas" (opportunistic observation), "lampareadas" (spotlighting), "campeadas" (scouring), "acorralamiento" (cornering) and manual collection. Wildlife appropriation is a culturally rooted activity in the reserve communities. Nevertheless, the analysis of the relationship society-fauna in the region is limited and this is why the generation of information that may enable a sustainable management of the faunistic resource is necessary.

Análisis exploratorio sobre conflictos fauna silvestregente en la Reserva Natural Tumbesia La Ceiba, área núcleo de la Reserva de Biosfera Binacional EcuadorPerú "Bosques de Paz" / Exploratory analysis on wildlife-people conflicts in the Tumbesia La Ceiba Natural Reserve, core area of the Ecuador-Peru Binational Biosphere Reserve "Bosques de Paz"

Resumen Los conflictos entre fauna silvestre y seres humanos constituyen un problema complejo y creciente, principalmente para la conservación de especies involucradas en los mismos. Pese a la existencia de trabajos que analizan esta temática en el neotrópico, aún se evidencian vacíos de conocimiento geográficos y/o temáticos sobre esta disciplina. Ecuador, alberga un importante número de estudios enfocados principalmente en la identificación de las especies involucradas en conflictos. Sin embargo, la costa del país; particularmente los bosques secos del suroccidente han permanecido al margen sobre el tema. Este estudio se desarrolló en las comunidades circunscritas a la Reserva Natural Tumbesia La Ceiba, cantón Zapotillo, al sur de Ecuador. Con el uso de una entrevista semiestructurada, aplicada a los pobladores del sector se logró identificar, categorizar, definir la frecuencia, causas, y actitudes sobre los conflictos con la fauna silvestre del sector. Se identificaron seis tipos de conflictos: cacería, depredación de animales domésticos, destrucción de cultivos, usos medicinales, tráfico de especies y ofidiofobia. Dieciséis especies están involucradas en esta problemática. Puma concolor y Lycalopex sechurae se proponen como las especies más conflictivas. Además, se identificó una respuesta comunitaria organizada para enfrentar los problemas causados por las especies; así como se encontró que los costos causados por ataques de fauna silvestre son significativos, principalmente cuando involucran la pérdida de ganado caprino. Este trabajo provee la línea de base respecto al conocimiento de este campo investigativo para el sur occidente del país y evidencia que la única forma de enfrentar la problemática es establecer formas de colaboración público-privadas.

Abstract Conflicts between wildlife and humans are a complex and growing problem, particularly for the conservation of the species involved in the conflict. Despite the existence of studies analysing this issue in the Neotropics, gaps in geographical and/or thematic knowledge about this discipline remain open. Ecuador is home to an important number of studies focused mainly on the identification of species involved in conflicts. However, the country's coast, particularly the southwest dry forests, has remained untouched by this topic. This study was carried out in the communities surrounding the Tumbesia La Ceiba Natural Reserve, Zapotillo canton, in southern Ecuador. Using a semi-structured interview, applied to local inhabitants, we were able to identify, categorize, and define the frequency, causes, and attitudes towards conflicts with the sector's wildlife. Six types of conflicts were identified: hunting, predation of domestic animals, destruction of crops, medicinal uses, species trafficking, and ofidiophobia. Sixteen species are involved in this problem. Puma concolor and Lycalopex sechurae are proposed as the most conflictive species. In addition, an organized community response was identified to address the problems caused by the species; and the costs caused by wildlife attacks were found to be significant, primarily when they involved the loss of goats. This work provides a baseline of knowledge on this issue for the country's southwest, and shows that the only way to address the problem is to establish public and private partnerships.

Impacts of rural to urban migration, urbanization, and generational change on consumption of wild animals in the Amazon.

For the first time in history, more people live in urban areas than in rural areas. This trend is likely to continue, driven largely by rural-to-urban migration. We investigated how rural-to-urban migration, urbanization, and generational change affect the consumption of wild animals. We used chelonian (tortoises and freshwater turtles), one of the most hunted taxa in the Amazon, as a model. We surveyed 1356 households and 2776 school children across 10 urban areas of the Brazilian Amazon (6 small towns, 3 large towns, and Manaus, the largest city in the Amazon Basin) with a randomized response technique and anonymous questionnaires. Urban demand for wild meat (i.e., meat from wild animals) was alarmingly high. Approximately 1.7 million turtles and tortoises were consumed in urban areas of Amazonas during 2018. Consumption rates declined as size of the urban area increased and were greater for adults than children. Furthermore, the longer rural-to-urban migrants lived in urban areas, the lower their consumption rates. These results suggest that wild meat consumption is a rural-related tradition that decreases as urbanization increases and over time after people move to urban areas. However, it is unclear whether the observed decline will be fast enough to conserve hunted species, or whether children's consumption rate will remain the same as they become adults. Thus, conservation actions in urban areas are still needed. Current conservation efforts in the Amazon do not address urban demand for wildlife and may be insufficient to ensure the survival of traded species in the face of urbanization and human population growth. Our results suggest that conservation interventions must target the urban demand for wildlife, especially by focusing on young people and recent rural to urban migrants. Article impact statement: Amazon urbanite consumption of wildlife is high but decreases with urbanization, over time for rural to urban migrants, and between generations. Impactos de la Migración del Campo a la Ciudad, la Urbanización y del Cambio Generacional sobre el Consumo de Animales Silvestres en el Amazonas.

Por primera vez en la historia, la población urbana es mayor que la rural. Es muy probable que esta tendencia continúe debido a la migración del campo a la ciudad. Investigamos el efecto de la migración del campo a la ciudad, la urbanización y el cambio generacional sobre el consumo de animales silvestres. Utilizamos como modelo a los quelonios (tortugas acuáticas y terrestres), uno de los taxa más cazados en el Amazonas. Aplicamos encuestas en 1,356 casas y a 2,776 niños en edad escolar en 10 áreas urbanas de la Amazonía brasileña (6 poblados pequeños, 3 poblados grandes y Manaos, la mayor ciudad en la Cuenca del Amazonas) mediante una técnica de respuesta aleatoria y cuestionarios anónimos. La demanda urbana de carne silvestre (i.e., carne de animales silvestres) fue alarmantemente alta. Aproximadamente 1.7 millones de tortugas acuáticas y terrestres fueron consumidas en áreas urbanas del Amazonas durante 2018. Las tasas de consumo declinaron a medida que incrementó la superficie urbana y fueron mayores en adultos que en niños. Más aun, entre más tiempo viviendo en áreas urbanas, las tasas de consumo fueron menores en los migrantes del campo a la ciudad. Estos resultados sugieren que el consumo de carne silvestre es una tradición rural que disminuye a medida que aumenta la urbanización y el tiempo desde que los habitantes se mueven a la ciudad. Sin embargo, no es claro si la declinación observada será lo suficientemente rápida para conservar a las especies cazadas, o si la tasa de consumo de los niños permanecerá igual cuando sean adultos. Por lo tanto, aun se requieren acciones de conservación en áreas urbanas. Los actuales esfuerzos de conservación en el Amazonas no abordan la demanda urbana de carne de monte y pueden ser insuficientes para asegurar la supervivencia de especies comercializadas ante la urbanización y el crecimiento de la población humana. Nuestros resultados sugieren que las intervenciones de conservación deben atender la demanda de fauna silvestre, con énfasis en los jóvenes y los migrantes recientes.

Estudio etnozoológico de los vertebrados silvestresde la comunidad Bonifacio García, Morelos, México / Ethnozoological study of wild vertebrates of the Bonifacio Garcia community, Morelos, Mexico

Resumen El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar el conocimiento etnozoológico que conservan de los vertebrados silvestres los habitantes de la comunidad Bonifacio García en Morelos, México. Se aplicaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 30 informantes clave, mediante la observación participante y recorridos guiados se buscaron rastros como huellas, excretas, madrigueras, pieles y observación in vivo para la identificación de las especies citadas y se calcularon los siguientes índices: valor de diversidad de uso para cada especie (VDE) y de uso medicinal (VDM), así como el índice de diversidad de las enfermedades tratadas (IVDE). Se reportan 41 especies de vertebrados que los entrevistados reconocen, de los cuales 28 son aprovechados: mamíferos 39.3%, aves 32%, reptiles 18%, peces 7.1% y anfibios 3.6%. Los principales valores de uso fueron alimentario (0.54), medicinal (0.46) y ornamental (0.43). El venado cola blanca, la iguana negra y la víbora de cascabel registraron 0.57 de VDE y un VDM de 0.19. Las principales enfermedades tratadas son: cáncer, afecciones respiratorias, enfermedades de la piel y reumatismo con un IVDE de 0.17. La apropiación de los vertebrados silvestres se lleva a cabo por medio de la cacería de subsistencia en el campo (50%), terrenos de cultivo (43%) y el traspatio (7%) utilizando con mayor frecuencia escopeta como arma de captura. Se concluye que la apropiación de vertebrados permite complementar necesidades básicas de alimentación y salud; por lo que los conocimientos etnozoológicos deben de integrarse a políticas públicas que permitan la conservación y manejo de la fauna silvestre en la comunidad.

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the ethnozoological knowledge that the inhabitants of the Bonifacio García community, Morelos, Mexico, conserve about wild vertebrate. Semi-structured interviews were applied to 30 key informants, through participant observation and guided tours, traces such as footprints, excreta, burrows and pelts and in vivo observation were researched for the identification of the mentioned species and the following indexes were calculated: value of diversity of use for each species (VDS) and of medicinal uses (DVM), as well as the diversity index of the treated diseases (DITD). The study recorded a total of 42 wild vertebrate species, of these 28 are used: mammals 39.3%, birds 32%, reptiles 18%, fish 7.1% and amphibia 3.6%. The main use values were alimentary (0.54), medicinal (0.46) and ornamental (0.43). The white-tailed deer, the black iguana and the rattlesnake registered 0.57 of VDS and a DVM of 0.19. The main diseases treated are cancer, respiratory and skin diseases and rheumatism with an DITD of 0.17. The animals are obtained by means of subsistence hunting in the fields (50%), croplands (43%) and backyards (7%), using most frequently shotguns as arms for capture. We conclude that the appropriation of vertebrates complements basic needs for food and health; therefore, ethnozoological knowledge must be integrated into public policies that enable the conservation and management of wild fauna in the community.

Morphometric, anatomic and radiographic study of bone of the pelvic limb of endangered Patagonian huemul deer (Hippocamelus bisulcus) / Estudio morfométrico, anatómico y radiográfico de los huesos del miembro pélvico del huemul patagónico en peligro de extinción (Hippocamelus bisulcus)

Currently, the Patagonian huemul (Hippocamelus bisulcus) is endangered. Anatomical studies focused on understanding the anatomy of the deer most threatened by extinction in South America is a challenge for anatomists, veterinarians and biologists. Research carried out for its conservation has focused mainly on its ecology and pathology, leaving gaps in anatomical knowledge, which is basic and important for a comprehensive understanding of this species. Gross anatomy and radiography of the skeleton of the pelvic limb was performed in three adult Patagonian huemul. Bone specimens of three skeletally mature Patagonian huemul deer were used for gross osteological and radiographic studies. This study was conducted to reveal the morphometric and morphological features of the ossa membri pelvini of the Patagonian huemul. The main findings suggest the presence of powerful extensor muscles in the coxofemoral, femorotibial and tarsal joints, useful during walking, jogging and propulsion in deer. In general, the MNF of Patagonian huemul differ in position with respect to domestic ungulates. In addition, the presence of a notch or obturator canal was observed, with variability in morphology and development among the specimens.

Actualmente, el Huemul Patagónico (Hippocamelus bisulcus) está en peligro de extinción. Los estudios morfológicos centrados en comprender su anatomía han sido un desafío para morfólogos, veterinarios y biólogos. Investigaciones enfocadas en su conservación, se han centrado principalmente en su ecología, patología y en la descripción de sus principales agentes infecciosos, dejando vacíos en el conocimiento anatómico básico, y por ende, su comprensión morfofisiológica. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir la anatomía, morfometría y radiología macroscópica normal y detallada del ossa membri pelvini en tres especímenes de Huemul Patagónico, incluida una interpretación funcional como referencia para uso clínico y conservacionista, investigación biomédica y fines de enseñanza. Los principales hallazgos sugieren la presencia de potentes músculos extensores en las articulaciones coxofemoral, femorotibial y tarsal, útiles durante la marcha, el trote y la propulsión en los ciervos. En general, los forámenes nutricios principales del Huemul patagónico difieren en posición con respecto a los ungulados domésticos. Además, se observó la presencia de una muesca o canal obturador, con variabilidad morfológica y de desarrollo entre los especímenes.

Abundancia relativa y patrones de actividad de Didelphis marsupialis en un área periurbana de Medellín, Colombia / Relative abundance and activity patterns of Didelphis marsupialis in a peri-urban area of Medellin, Colombia

RESUMEN Objetivo. Determinar la abundancia relativa y los patrones de actividad de la zarigüeya común (Didelphis marsupialis) en una zona periurbana del municipio de Medellín, departamento de Antioquia. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se desarrolló en la sede de prácticas y clínica veterinaria Remington ubicada en el corregimiento de Santa Elena. Para el registro de datos se empleó la metodología de fototrampeo durante 3 meses (junio-agosto de 2017), invirtiendo un esfuerzo total de 166 días/trampa. Resultados. Se obtuvieron un total de 275 registros independientes de la especie y se estimó una abundancia relativa de 52.88. El patrón de actividad muestra un primer pico de actividad al comienzo de la noche (19:00) y un segundo pico en la madrugada (3:00), con una posterior disminución hacia las horas de la madrugada. Conclusiones. Los resultados muestran una abundancia relativa alta con respecto a otras localidades en Colombia, además de evidenciar una población reproductivamente activa. Al mismo tiempo se convierten en una herramienta para el fortalecimiento de estrategias de conservación y sensibilización a los pobladores locales sobre la fauna de la región.

ABSTRACT Objective. The relative abundance and activity patterns of the common opossum Didelphis marsupialis were determined in a peri-urban area of Medellín municipality, Antioquia department. Materials and methods. The study was developed in the Remington Veterinary practice at Santa Elena Corregimiento. The data recording was carried out through camera trapping methodology for three months (June-August 2017) with a total effort of 166 days-camera. Results. With a total of 275 independent records, we calculate the relative abundance index (52.88 UNITS). The activity patterns show a first activity peak beginning the night (19:00) and a second one after midnight (3:00), reducing the activity in the sunrise hours. Conclusions. These results present a high relative abundance in comparison to another Colombian localities, besides a population active reproductively. At the same time, they become a tool to support conservation strategies and sensitizing local people about the wildlife of this region.

Guía de identificación de fauna silvestre, para las autoridades ambientales de Amazonas , San Martín, Loreto y Ucayali . Revisión y comentarios sobre su importancia / Guía de identificación de fauna silvestre, para las autoridades ambientales de Amazonas, San Martín, Loreto y Ucayali . A review and notes about its importa

Con la finalidad de brindar una herramienta para autoridades vinculadas a la lucha contra el tráfico ilegal de fauna silvestre se publicó la Guía de identificación de fauna silvestre para las autoridades ambientales de Amazonas, San Martín, Loreto y Ucayali (ISBN: 978-612-4261-24-4). Esta guía representa una herramienta importante por lo cual la información transmitida debe ser lo más actual y fidedigna posible. Sin embargo, después de revisar la sección dedicada a mamíferos, identificamos diversos errores que podrían generar confusión y ser contraproducentes en la lucha contra el tráfico ilegal de vida silvestre. Aunque resaltamos la importancia de este trabajo, sugerimos precaución en la elaboración de documentos como esta guía con la finalidad de maximizar su utilidad para las autoridades que combaten tráfico de fauna en nuestro territorio.

The Guía de identificación de fauna silvestre para las autoridades ambientales de Amazonas, San Martín, Loreto y Ucayali (ISBN: 978-612-4261-24-4) was published in order to provide a tool for authorities related to the fight against wildlife trafficking and trade.This guide represents an important tool, so the information transmitted should be as current and reliable as possible. However, after reviewing the section dedicated to mammals, we identified several errors that could generate confusion and be counterproductive in the fight against wildlife trafficking. Although we emphasize the importance of this work, we suggest caution in the preparation of documents such as this guide in order to maximize its usefulness for the authorities that fight wildlife trafficking in our territory.

Toward an integrative molecular approach to wildlife disease.

Pathogens pose serious threats to human health, agricultural investment, and biodiversity conservation through the emergence of zoonoses, spillover to domestic livestock, and epizootic outbreaks. As such, wildlife managers are often tasked with mitigating the negative effects of disease. Yet, parasites form a major component of biodiversity that often persist. This is due to logistical challenges of implementing management strategies and to insufficient understanding of host-parasite dynamics. We advocate for an inclusive understanding of molecular diversity in driving parasite infection and variable host disease states in wildlife systems. More specifically, we examine the roles of genetic, epigenetic, and commensal microbial variation in disease pathogenesis. These include mechanisms underlying parasite virulence and host resistance and tolerance, and the development, regulation, and parasite subversion of immune pathways, among other processes. Case studies of devil facial tumor disease in Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) and chytridiomycosis in globally distributed amphibians exemplify the broad range of questions that can be addressed by examining different facets of molecular diversity. For particularly complex systems, integrative molecular analyses present a promising frontier that can provide critical insights necessary to elucidate disease dynamics operating across scales. These insights enable more accurate risk assessment, reconstruction of transmission pathways, discernment of optimal intervention strategies, and development of more effective and ecologically sound treatments that minimize damage to the host population and environment. Such measures are crucial when mitigating threats posed by wildlife disease to humans, domestic animals, and species of conservation concern.

Vertebrate road kill survey on a highway in southern Brazil / Levantamento de vertebrados atropelados em rodovias do sul do Brasil

Highways are a major factor acting in the decline of several wildlife populations. Impact occurs due to the continuous flow of motor vehicles over tracks and collision with animals using the same area. This study aimed to list road killed wild vertebrates found in highways in the Pampa Biome, state of Rio Grande do Sul, over an entire year. The taxa found (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals) were identified to species level and their frequency of occurrence was seasonally registered. Along 2,160 km, we found 318 road killed individuals, totaling 65 species. This number represents an average of 0.147 road killed specimens by kilometer (that is, 1 individual each 7 km). Of these, seven species are under threat of extinction in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. We also found a seasonal pattern among road kills, in which the highest number of road killed animals was registered in the summer and spring months. These results contribute to increase knowledge about which species are most impacted by road kill on highways of the Pampa Biome. Such data can be used as an indicator for the implementation of measures by competent bodies to mitigate impacts of highways in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.

As rodovias são um fator provocador de declínio populacional de diversas espécies da fauna silvestre. O impacto ocorre devido ao contínuo fluxo de veículos automotores sobre as pistas e a colisão dos mesmos com animais que também utilizam essa área. O presente estudo teve por finalidade listar os vertebrados silvestres encontrados atropelados em rodovias no bioma Pampa, no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul, ao longo de um ano. Os táxons encontrados (anfíbios, répteis, aves e mamíferos) foram identificados em nível específico e a sua frequência de ocorrência foi registrada de forma sazonal. Em 2.160 km de estrada percorridos, foram encontrados 318 indivíduos atropelados, totalizando 65 espécies. Essa quantia representa uma média de 0,147 espécimes atropelados por quilômetro (ou seja, 01 indivíduo atropelado a cada 07 Km). Destas, sete espécies estão sob ameaça de extinção no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Foram observados padrões sazonais nos atropelamentos, sendo que os meses de verão e da primavera apresentaram o maior número de animais atropelados. Os resultados do estudo contribuem para o conhecimento de quais espécies da fauna silvestre são mais impactadas por atropelamentos no bioma Pampa. Estes dados poderão ser utilizados como orientação na implantação de medidas por órgãos competentes, afim de mitigar o impacto de rodovias no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul.

Refaunation and the reinstatement of the seed-dispersal function in Gorongosa National Park.

Large animals are important seed dispersers; however, they tend to be under a high extinction risk worldwide. There is compelling evidence that the global biodiversity crisis is leading to the deterioration of several ecosystem functions, but there is virtually no information on how large-scale refaunation efforts can reinstate seed dispersal. We evaluated the effectiveness of a 62-km2 wildlife sanctuary, which was established to recover populations of large mammals in Gorongosa National Park (Mozambique), in restoring seed dispersal. We collected animal scats during the dry season of 2014 (June-August) along 5 transects inside and 5 transects outside the sanctuary fence (50 km total) with the same type of plant community, identified animal and plant species in the transects, and quantified the number of seeds in each scat. Based on these data, we built bipartite networks and calculated network and species-level descriptor values, and we compared data collected inside and outside the sanctuary. There were more scats (268 vs. 207) and more scats containing seeds (132 vs. 94) inside than outside the sanctuary. The number of mammal dispersers was also higher inside (17) than outside the sanctuary (11). Similarly, more seeds (2413 vs. 2124) and plant species (33 vs. 26) were dispersed inside than outside the sanctuary. Overall, the seed-dispersal network was less specialized (0.38 vs. 0.44) and there was a greater overlap (0.16 vs. 0.07) inside than outside the sanctuary. Both networks were significantly modular and antinested. The high number and richness of seeds dispersed inside the sanctuary was explained mostly by a higher abundance of dispersers rather than by disperser identity. Our results suggest conservation efforts aimed at recovering populations of large mammals are helping to reestablish not only target mammal species but also their functional roles as seed dispersers in the ecosystem.

Assessment of mammal reproduction for hunting sustainability through community-based sampling of species in the wild.

Wildlife subsistence hunting is a major source of protein for tropical rural populations and a prominent conservation issue. The intrinsic rate of natural increase. (rmax ) of populations is a key reproductive parameter in the most used assessments of hunting sustainability. However, researchers face severe difficulties in obtaining reproductive data in the wild, so these assessments often rely on classic reproductive rates calculated mostly from studies of captive animals conducted 30 years ago. The result is a flaw in almost 50% of studies, which hampers management decision making. We conducted a 15-year study in the Amazon in which we used reproductive data from the genitalia of 950 hunted female mammals. Genitalia were collected by local hunters. We examined tissue from these samples to estimate birthrates for wild populations of the 10 most hunted mammals. We compared our estimates with classic measures and considered the utility of the use of rmax in sustainability assessments. For woolly monkey (Lagothrix poeppigii) and tapir (Tapirus terrestris), wild birthrates were similar to those from captive populations, whereas birthrates for other ungulates and lowland-paca (Cuniculus paca) were significantly lower than previous estimates. Conversely, for capuchin monkeys (Sapajus macrocephalus), agoutis (Dasyprocta sp.), and coatis (Nasua nasua), our calculated reproductive rates greatly exceeded often-used values. Researchers could keep applying classic measures compatible with our estimates, but for other species previous estimates of rmax may not be appropriate. We suggest that data from local studies be used to set hunting quotas. Our maximum rates of population growth in the wild correlated with body weight, which suggests that our method is consistent and reliable. Integration of this method into community-based wildlife management and the training of local hunters to record pregnancies in hunted animals could efficiently generate useful information of life histories of wild species and thus improve management of natural resources.

Sobre algunos helmintos parásitos de la taruca, Hippocamelus antisensis (Mammalia: Artiodactyla) / On some helminth parasites of the taruca, Hippocamelus antisensis (Mammalia: Artiodactyla)

En el presente estudio se da a conocer tres especies de helmintos parásitos colectados de una taruca (Hippocamelus antisensis) en el Perú. Una taruca macho adulto fue remitido al Instituto Veterinario de Investigaciones Tropicales y de Altura (IVITA), Sede Maranganí, por el Servicio Nacional Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre del Perú (SERFOR), para su respectiva necropsia. Se colectaron 2 nematodos del sistema digestivo, así como un quiste localizado en el omento. Para el diagnóstico parasitológico se evaluaron las características morfo-métricas de los especímenes colectados. Los nematodos fueron diagnosticados como Trichostrongylus axei y Mazamastrongylus sp.; por otro lado, el quiste fue diagnosticado como un metacestodo de Taenia hydatigena. El hallazgo de T. axei representa el primer registro para la taruca. En la presente nota se realiza también una breve descripción morfológica de los helmintos mencionados.

This study presents three species of helminth parasites collected from a taruca (Hippocamelus antisensis) in Peru. Three helminth parasites from the taruca (Hippocamelus antisensis) are described in this report. An adult male taruca was remitted to the Veterinary Institute of Tropical and Highland Research (IVITA), Sede Maranganí, for the National Forest and Wildlife Service of Peru (SERFOR) for their respective necropsy. Two nematodes were collected from the digestive system, and 1 cyst was collected from the omentum. Morphometric characteristics of the specimens were evaluated for the parasitological diagnosis. Nematodes were diagnosed as Trichostrongylus axei and Mazamastrongylus sp.; on the other hand, the cyst was diagnosed as a metacestode of Taenia hydatigena. T. axei finding represents the first record for the taruca. A brief morphological description of each helminth and discussion about their hosts and distribution is done.

Análisis de la biodiversidad de fauna vertebrada en una finca de Caldas, Antioquia / Analysis of the biodiversity of vertebrate fauna on a farm in Caldas, Antioquia / Análise da biodiversidade de fauna vertebrada em um sítio de Caldas, Antioquia

Objetivo: este estudio analizó la composición de la comunidad de fauna vertebrada en un espacio boscoso muy húmedo premontano en el centro de prácticas Santa Inés, ubicado en el municipio de Caldas (Antioquia, Colombia) con un área de 124.085 m², de conformación limoarcillosa y limoarenosa, una altitud entre 1800-2000 m s. n. m., y con una precipitación media de 2444 mm. Materiales y métodos: se utilizó la técnica no invasiva del fototrampeo, durante un periodo de muestreo de quince semanas usando siete cámaras, rotándolas cada tres semanas de lugar y utilizando cebos para facilitar la observación. Al final se realizó una rotación para la abundancia relativa que tuvo una duración de tres meses. Resultados: durante el periodo total de muestreo se registraron veintitrés especies, once de la clase Mammalia y doce de la clase aves, con un esfuerzo total de 1099 días/trampa. Las fotos obtenidas de cada estación de muestreo permitieron analizar la relación entre las especies encontradas; se registraron cinco especies de felinos silvestres. El 13,043 % del total de especies registradas se encuentran en alguna categoría de riesgo de acuerdo con las normas internacionales. Conclusiones: como fundamento de este estudio, se realizó por primera vez el avistamiento de la fauna macrovertebrada habitante de la zona boscosa del centro de prácticas Santa Inés, donde se registró la presencia de diversos mamíferos y aves, lo que evidencia la efectividad de la técnica del fototrampeo. El patrón de actividad de las especies registradas determinó hábitos diurnos y nocturnos.

Objective: The study analyzed the composition of the vertebrate fauna community in a very humid premontane forest area in the Santa Inés practice center, located in the municipality of Caldas (Antioquia, Colombia), with an area of 124,085 m², of limey-clayish and limey-sandy soil, at an altitude between 1800-2000 meters a.s.l., and with an average rainfall of 2444 mm. Materials and methods: As a non-invasive technique, camera traps were used during a sampling period of fifteen weeks, with seven cameras, rotating them every three weeks, and using baits to facilitate observation. A final rotation was performed to determine relative abundance, which lasted three months. Results: During the entire sampling period, 23 species were recorded: 11 from the Mammalia class and 12 from the bird class; with a total effort of 1099 days/trap. The photos obtained in each sampling station allowed to analyze the relationship among the species found; five species of wild cats were also recorded. The 13.043 % of all recorded species are in a risk category according to international standards. Conclusions: As the basis of this study, there was observed, for the first time, the macrovertebrate wildlife living in the forest area of the Santa Inés practice center, where various mammals and birds were recorded; this shows the effectiveness of camera traps. The pattern of activity of the recorded species determined diurnal and nocturnal habits.

Objetivo: este estudo analisou a composição da comunidade de fauna vertebrada em uma zona arborizada úmida montanhosa no centro de práticas Santa Inés, situado no município de Caldas (Antioquia, Colômbia) com uma área de 124.085 m², de conformação limo argilosa e limo arenosa, uma altitude entre 1800-2000 m s. n. m., e com uma precipitação média de 2444 mm. Materiais e métodos: se utilizou a técnica não invasiva de armadilha fotográfica, durante um período de amostragem de quinze semanas usando sete câmeras, alternando-as a cada três semanas de lugar e utilizando sebos para facilitar a observação. Ao finalizar se realizou uma rotação para a abundância relativa que teve uma duração de três meses. Resultados: durante o período total de amostragem se registraram vinte e três espécies, onze do tipo Mammalia e doze do tipo aves, com um esforço total de 1099 dias/armadilha. As fotos obtidas de cada estação de amostragem permitiram analisar a relação entre as espécies encontradas; se registraram cinco espécies de felinos silvestres. O 13,043 % do total de espécies registradas se encontram em alguma categoria de risco de acordo com as normas internacionais. Conclusões: como fundamento deste estudo, se realizou pela primeira vez o avistamento da fauna macro vertebrada habitante da zona de bosques do centro de práticas Santa Inés, aonde se registrou a presença de diversos mamíferos e aves, fator que evidencia a efetividade da técnica da foto armadilha. O padrão de atividade das espécies registradas determinou hábitos diurnos e noturnos.

Percepciones y reconocimiento local de fauna silvestre, municipio de alcalá, departamento del valle del cauca, colombia / Wildlife perception and recognition in the municipality of alcalá, department del valle del cauca, colombia

En los Andes centrales de Colombia se documentaron las percepciones y reconocimiento local de aves, mamíferos, anfibios y reptiles. Se entrevistó a campesinos con edad superior a 30 años para situar áreas de hábitat y reconocer especies en usos y coberturas del terreno. El reconocimiento de los agricultores se tradujo por los investigadores-mediadores en la formulación de categorías taxonómicas con visitas a los predios, avistamiento y la ayuda de guías de campo. Se reconocieron 168 especies: 103 de aves, 31 de mamíferos, 17 de anfibios y 17 de reptiles. Cuatro Análisis de Componentes Principales relacionaron la mayor competencia de campesinos para reconocer y percibir aves, mamíferos, anfibios y reptiles con diferencias significativas en los usos del terreno (valor p < 0,01, prueba Monte Carlo); se separaron las especies de aves para uso directo y hábito alimentario; mamíferos para uso directo e indirecto; se agruparon los reptiles con valor de uso comercial, ornamental, artesanal y cacería. Las aves fueron las de mayor presencia en los usos y coberturas del terreno (frutales, 47,5%; platanal/bananal, 45%; cafetales con sombrío, 40%). Se confirmó la necesidad del encuentro con los repertorios culturales locales para potenciar la política pública de conservación de la diversidad biológica y la asociación de la calidad de los hábitats para la fauna silvestre con los estilos de agricultura de la localidad.

To document the perception and recognition of local bird, mammal, amphibian, and reptile species, located in the Central Andes of Colombia were selected. Farmers aged 30 years and older were interviewed to identify areas of habitat, species, and land use coverage. The local recognition made by the local farmers was translated by researchers into taxa, complemented with visits to farms, sightseen, and with the help of field guides. Overall, 168 species were documented of which 103 corresponded to birds, 31 to mammals, 17 to amphibians, and 17 to reptiles. The results of four principal component analyses show that the local farmers are capable of recognizing and perception birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles, with significant differences in land uses (p < 0.01, Monte Carlo test). Bird species were grouped according to direct use and eating habits; mammals were grouped according to direct and indirect use; and finally reptiles were grouped according to use as commercial, ornamental, artisanal, and hunting. Birds ranked highest in presence in all land uses and such land covers (fruit trees, 47.5%; plantain and banana plantations, 45%; shade-grown coffee, 40%). The needs for meetings and the acquisition of local cultural repertoires to improve governmental policies regarding biodiversity conservation and to relate wildlife habitat quality with local farming systems was confirmed.

First record of Paratanaisia bragai (Digenea: Eucotylidae) in blue and gold macaw (Ara ararauna) / Primeiro registro de Paratanaisia bragai (Digenea: Eucotylidae) em arara Canindé (Ara ararauna)

Abstract The aim of this study was to provide the first report on a new host for the digenean Paratanaisia bragai in the caninde macaw Ara ararauna along with the pathological aspects of the infection in the new host. The microscopic findings revealed the presence of granulomatous interstitial nephritis. This study contributes towards knowledge of parasitism by P. bragai in A. ararauna, and emphasizes the need to use best practices in wildlife conservation parks.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar, pela primeira vez, a arara canindéAra ararauna como um novo hospedeiro para o digenéticoParatanaisia bragai, bem como relatar aspectos patológicos relacionados à infecção no novo hospedeiro. Os achados microscópicos revelaram nefrite intersticial granulomatosa. Este estudo contribui para o conhecimento do parasitismo por P. bragai em A. ararauna e ainda faz um alerta para a adoção de boas práticas de criação em criatórios conservacionistas da fauna silvestre.

[Mycobacterium bovis in wildlife of the dairy regions of Santa Fe (Argentina)]. / Mycobacterium bovis en fauna silvestre de la cuenca lechera de Santa Fe, Argentina.

Control eradication campaigns of bovine tuberculosis based on the «test and slaughter¼ approach were successful in many countries and regions; however, in some areas the infection persists and one of the main reasons is Mycobacterium bovis infection in wild life species. Argentina has applied the same approach since 1999, achieving progress in dairy cattle herds. Nonetheless, the wildlife role has never been investigated. The objective of this study was to determine if wildlife from the Santa Fe dairy area is infected with M. bovis. Wildlife species having a positive tuberculin skin test were captured in five dairy farms. Ninety five wildlife mammals were captured; M. bovis was recovered from 7 possums (Didelphys albiventris), from one fox (Lycolapex gimnocercus) and from one rat (Rattus norvegicus). None of the animals exhibited macroscopic lesions. The most frequently isolated M. bovis spoligotypes were types 34 (4 isolates) and 12 (3 isolates). Spoligotype 34 is the most frequently isolated type in Argentine cattle. The role of D. albiventris as spillover host of M. bovis is discussed in this study.