Introduction
The short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis) is one of the least known canids in the world and one of the least frequently spotted carnivores in Latin America. With a snout similar to that of a fox, webbed feet like those of a capybara, and a thick tail, this animal is a mystery to many. In Bolivia, it is popularly known as the “ghost dog” (“perro fantasma” in Spanish), due to its rarity and difficulty in being spotted.
The Study
A study conducted in Bolivia over more than two decades collected approximately 4,600 camera trap images to understand how the animal lives, the places it inhabits, and why its survival depends so much on intact South American forests. Of the records collected, about 600 are considered revealing. The research, carried out between 2001 and 2024, highlights that the canid is indeed an Amazonian species — and, particularly, a forest species.
Habitat and Distribution
The short-eared dog typically inhabits areas of continuous Amazonian forest in Brazil and neighboring countries, such as Peru, Bolivia, and Colombia. In addition to living in areas in the Bolivian departments of La Paz, Pando, Beni, and Santa Cruz, it can be found in the pre-Amazonian forests of the Andes mountain range, also known as foothill forests (transition vegetation areas formed at the base of hills and mountains), at altitudes of up to 750 meters.
Importance of Conservation
The conservation of South American forests is crucial for the survival of the short-eared dog. Habitat loss due to deforestation and forest fragmentation is one of the main threats to the species. Additionally, hunting and persecution by humans are also factors that contribute to the reduction of the canid population.
Conclusion
The study conducted in Bolivia is an important step for the conservation of the short-eared dog. Understanding the habitat and distribution of the species is fundamental for the development of effective conservation strategies. Furthermore, raising awareness about the importance of preserving South American forests is essential to ensure the survival of the canid and many other species that depend on these ecosystems.
Source / Reference: Mongabay