Habitat selection in reintroduced giant anteaters: the critical role of conservation areas

DI BLANCO, Y. E.; JIMÉNEZ PÉREZ, I.; DI BITETTI, M. S.

JOURNAL OF MAMMALOGY

ALLIANCE COMMUNICATIONS GROUP DIVISION ALLEN PRESS

Lugar: Lawrence; Año: 2015 vol. 96 p. 1024 - 1035

0022-2372

Habitat selection by the first world-wide reintroduced population of giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) was studied at Iberá Nature Reserve (NE Argentina), a subtropical region of wetlands, grasslands and forests, with properties dedicated to nature conservation or livestock production. Eighteen animals were released and radio-tracked between 2007-2012 for periods of 6-46 months, producing 1,181 locations. The effect of land use was assessed using Chi-squared tests. Resource Selection Functions were used to assess habitat selection at two spatial scales using as covariates Habitat type (Grassland, Open Savannah, Closed Savannah and Hygrophilous Forest), Distance to Forest Edge (DFE) and Distance to a Main Road (DMR). Habitat selection was modelled for different ages (juveniles and adults), activity (resting or active) and seasons (Summer, Transition and Winter), and was validated with individuals previously excluded from the analysis. Anteaters strongly selected areas dedicated to nature conservation. Adults showed higher model fit. Hygrophilous Forest was positively selected and Open Savannah was avoided. Anteaters rested almost exclusively in forests. While active they increased the use of other habitats, except for Open Savannah. Grasslands were most used during winter season, probably because they provide a constant food source and better cover than Savannahs. Even though < 4% of the landscape was covered by forests, this habitat proved to be important for giant anteaters. Deforestation and traditional cattle management may have caused the local extinction of the species at Iberá. Establishment of strict conservation areas in non-flooded areas combined with proper management of forests and livestock may be essential for the long-term survival of reintroduced populations in Iberá and similar regions.