Regresar

First cranial evidence and documented occurrence of Cuniculus paca (Rodentia, Cuniculidae) for the Humid Chaco region of Argentina

Abstract:

We report the first record of Cuniculus paca for the province of Formosa in Argentina and the Argentinean Gran Chaco region based on one skull found close to the river Pilagá (estancia Guaycolec: 25° 58' S, 58° 11' W) and on 18 photos taken by camera traps. Since the photos include time-stamps, we were able to evaluate the activity pattern of the paca in that area. Pacas showed strict nocturnal behavior and seemed to be influenced by the lunar cycles; there were no records during full and new moon. All photos were taken at a maximum distance of 170 m to the river, confirming the strong association of the species to watercourses. © SAREM, 2013.