Tree-cavity denning of güiña (Leopardus guigna) and breeding
productivity from camera trap records in southern South America
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.