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Tree-cavity denning of güiña (Leopardus guigna) and breeding productivity from camera trap records in southern South America
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  • Fernando Novoa,
  • Mariana Ayala,
  • Jose Infante,
  • JOSE IBARRA,
  • Jesús Díaz,
  • Tomás Altamirano,
  • Nicolás Gálvez
Fernando Novoa
Pontifical Catholic University of Chile

Corresponding Author:frnovoa@uc.cl

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Mariana Ayala
Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile
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Jose Infante
Universidad Austral de Chile
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JOSE IBARRA
Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile
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Jesús Díaz
Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
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Tomás Altamirano
Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
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Nicolás Gálvez
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
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Abstract

Tree cavities are critical habitats for numerous vertebrate species, serving as keystone resources for nesting, roosting, and shelter. We document the first evidence of güiña breeding within a tree cavity of a standing dead tree, exploring its implications on breeding productivity and complementing this record with evidence from camera trap surveys conducted in temperate forests of central-south Chile. These findings enhance our understanding of the species’ natural history, breeding behavior, and habitat preferences. Additionally, we discuss the conservation implications of this discovery, offering new insights into the breeding ecology and habitat selection of one of South America’s most elusive felines.
19 Dec 2024Submitted to Ecology and Evolution
30 Dec 2024Submission Checks Completed
30 Dec 2024Assigned to Editor
08 Jan 2025Reviewer(s) Assigned