Core area and centre of activity of maned wolves, Chrysocyon brachyurus (Illiger) (Mammalia, Canidae), submitted to supplemental feeding

Abstract

Based on the finding of remains (tracks, scats, and hairs), an analysis was made of the core area and centre of activity of maned wolves, Chrysocyon brachyurus (Illiger, 1815), living in a private natural reserve in which ecotourism activities are developed and these animals are daily fed bovine meat. A total of 465 samples of remains were recorded. Using the fixed kernel method, the area encompassing all samples recorded was estimated at 25.7 km², yet 50% of all samples were found in an area of only 1.5 km², representing 5.8% of the total area covered. For estimating the core area of the animals, the frequency of occurrence of the samples was determined by superimposing a 50 x 50 m cell grid over a map of the area encompassing all recorded occurrences. Based on the cells containing more than six occurrences, the animals' core area was 0.99 km², which included the place where the animals are fed. The centre of activity was located only 0.50 km from this place. The high negative correlation (r = -0.93, p < 0.05) between the densities of the recorded occurrences and the distances from these to the sanctuary indicates that the core area and centre of activity are conditioned by artificial feeding.