Distribution and habitat studies on forest animals
As a basis for all other studies on fauna in the area, we have set up a programme to record signs of animal presence in different landscape elements We assessed the presence of wildlife through transects to observe tracks, signs, scats, direct observation, and camera trapping. Direct observation is only possible for birds, due to the secretive behaviour of mammals in the forest.
The
camera traps have demonstrated so far the presence of 8 species of large
mammals in continuous forest as well as remnant forest fragments. The
native species captured by the cameras so far are: Puma (Puma
concolor), Kodkod (Oncifelis guigna), Pudú (Pudu pudu),
Chingue (Conepatus chinga), Culpeo fox (Psuedalopex culpeus),
and Gray fox (Pseudalopex griseus). Two exotic species were
recorded, these being Wild boar (Sus scrofa) and the European
Hare (Lepus capensis). Also, feral dogs have been recorded at
all the sites, which, along with the wild boar, are suspected to
represent a significant threat to wildlife conservation in the area.
Domestic cows were also recorded at several sites, giving important
insights into the use of these forest areas by local farmers. These
results have been used, together with existing literature and expert
advice, for the development of a new long term monitoring scheme to
analyze the importance of lowland forest habitat for large mammals in
the Namuncahue biological corridor and other forested areas outside
protected areas of the IX region.
Pudu.
This monitoring scheme involves sampling during two winters and two summers at the same sites. All cameras will be set up within the 400-800 masl altitude range. We have considered that below this range, human activities dominate the landscape and above this range, environmental conditions during winter pose important environmental stress for wildlife populations. All sites are south facing slopes of lowland temperate rain forest, specifically, mixed Evergreen with deciduous forest habitat. During winter 2007 we sampled the same sites as summer and added two sites. Winter conditions were the worst in 60 years. Some camera sites suffered from fluctuating snow cover and therefore did not produce data. Track surveys in snow were complementary to camera results.
Starting summer 2008, we have expanded our work to include small fragments in the agricultural matrix. A total of 21 landowners have been contacted and permits received to work on their land. We set up 27 camera sites, 2km apart. Nine total sites in each type habitat: Continuous forest, Large fragments (>100há), Small fragments (<20há).
All camera sites have scent stations for lure with a small roof for protection. Complementary information is being taken with track plates. The sites will be maintained all year round to analyze temporal variations in occupancy and as a proposal for a long term monitoring scheme of large mammals.
Further studies aim to deepen understanding of the conflict and its potential resolution between livestock farmers and puma, kod-kod cat ecology, the feral dog issue and a more objective evaluation of wild boar impacts in this ecosystem.
Winter habitats
Severe climate at high altitudes limits habitat available mammals during the winter months
Setting up a camera trap
Distribution of cameras around the study area
(click image for detail)
A
scent station