Habitat use and relative abundance of the Spotted Paca Cuniculus paca (Linnaeus, 1766) (Rodentia: Cuniculidae) and the Red-rumped Agouti Dasyprocta leporina (Linnaeus, 1758) (Rodentia: Dasyproctidae) in Guatopo National Park, Venezuela

Abstract

The Spotted Paca Cuniculus paca and the Red-rumped Agouti Dasyprocta leporina are affected by habitat loss and hunting. In Venezuela, their conservation status is unknown, even within protected areas. The objective of this study was to estimate the relative abundance, activity patterns, habitat use, and effect of human activities on these species in Venezuela. To achieve this, 26 camera-trap stations (20.8km 2 ) were established in Guatopo National Park between February and April 2011, characterization of the habitat was undertaken and occupancy models were created. The relative abundance of the Spotted Paca was 1.62 captures/100trap-nights, with a fully nocturnal activity pattern. The relative abundance of the Red-rumped Agouti was 2.32 captures/100trap-nights, with a pronounced diurnal activity pattern. The occupation probability of the Red-rumped Agouti (0.61 SE 0.02) was higher than that of the Spotted Paca (0.27 SE 0.02). Spotted Pacas were mainly found in areas with mature forest and high tree density, whereas the Red-rumped Agoutis were most frequently found in valleys with little disturbed forest. A positive correlation was found between illegal hunting activities and areas occupied by the Spotted Paca. It is important to strengthen the park control measurements to reduce illegal hunting of Spotted Pacas.