Activity patterns of Molina´s hog nosed skunk in two areas of the Pampas grassland (Argentina, South America) under different anthropogenic pressure

CASTILLO, DIEGO; LUENGOS VIDAL, ESTELA; CARUSO, NICOLAS; CASANAVE, EMMA; LUCHERINI, MAURO

ETHOLOGY ECOLOGY & EVOLUTION

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI FIRENZE

Año: 2014 p. 1 - 10

0394-9370

This study describes and compares the activity patterns of free-ranging Molina?s hog-nosed skunks (Conepatus chinga) in a protected area (PA) and a cropland area (CA) in the Pampas grassland of Argentina. Sixteen skunks (PA: 3 males, 4 females; CA: 3 males, 6 females) were captured and monitored using radio-telemetry techniques for 92?395 days each. In both areas C. chinga was largely nocturnal and the start and cessation of activity was related to sunset and sunrise, respectively. Skunks spent more time active in the PA, where the level of anthropic activity was lower, and this difference was due to increased activity during the daylight hours. Finally, activity was greater for females than for males and in the warm season when compared to the cold season. In the Pampas grasslands of Argentina, activity of Molina?s hog-nosed skunks seems to be influenced by both food availability and predation risk related to human presence.