Presentation Details
| Cues in the mist: scent-marking behavior in Andean bears and temporal overlap with free-ranging dogs Valentina Lopez Velasco1, Juan Cepeda Duque2, Carlos Aguelo Henao3, Jorge Astwood Romero4, Edwin Valencia5, Rosalino Ortiz5, Daniel Rodríguez6. 1Reserva: The Youth Land Trust, Armenia, Quindio, Colombia.2Tiger Cats Conservation Initiative, Dosquebradas, Risaralda, Colombia.3Universidad del Quindio, Armenia, Quindio, Colombia.4Universidad de Los Llanos, Villavicencio, Meta, Colombia.5Corporación Mashiramo, Pitalito, Huila, Colombia.6Fundacion Wii, Bogota, Cundinamarca, Colombia |
Abstract
Scent-marking plays a key role in animal fitness, particularly in solitary species such as the Andean bear, where it mediates communication and social interactions. However, studies on scent-marking behavior and the impact of free-ranging dogs remain limited. This study characterizes scent-marking behavior in Andean bears and evaluates temporal overlap with free-ranging dogs in a biological corridor linking the Andes and Amazon. Data were collected using camera traps at 10 rub trees in the Guácharos-Puracé corridor, Colombia from April 2023 - April 2024. Behavioral transitions were analyzed using finite Markov chains, and time budgets were compared by age and sex. Temporal overlap was assessed across rainfall seasons. Results revealed intersexual differences, with adult males investing more time in marking than females and subadults, particularly during the dry season. Both species were predominantly diurnal and showed high temporal overlap (77% dry season, 75% overall, 69% wet season), suggesting increased potential for interactions affecting communication and disease transmission. These findings highlight the need to assess the impact of free-ranging dogs on Andean bear behavior.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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