Scavenging behavior of the Short-eared Dog (Atelocynus microtis) in Ecuadorian lowland rainforest

Abstract

The short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis) is one of the least known canids of the world. Essential aspects of its ecology, activity patterns and feeding habits remain unknown. To study the composition, behavior and interactions of the western Amazonian scavenger community, a baited camera-trapping survey was performed from August to September 2018 in the surroundings of the Tiputini Biodiversity Station (Yasuní Biosphere Reserve, Ecuador). A total of 12 camera stations were set up, employing cow heads acquired from local meat processors as bait. Short-eared dogs were captured by camera-traps, and two individuals showed interest in the carrion, providing the first evidence that short-eared dogs include scavenging as part of their foraging behavior. Detection of short-eared dogs in the area was surprisingly frequent, despite the short survey period, indicating that use of baited camera-traps can be an effective tool for the study of the short-eared dog, an elusive and poorly documented species.