Mammals in a cloud forest patch and a restored area in central Veracruz, México

Abstract

Cloud forests (CF) are home to 53 % of the mammal species recorded in México.  Mammals are adversely affected by different causes, some of which are listed in a risk category.  This study assessed the richness and abundance of a mammal community in a CF patch and a restoration area (RA) in Huatusco, Veracruz, México.  Mammals were monitored by camera traps and track search (September 2019–May 2020).  A taxonomic list was elaborated, including the risk category (NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010 and IUCN).  Species richness was compared using species accumulation curves and a similarity index between treatments.  Fifteen species were recorded: 13 in camera traps and 2 through tracks.  It is worth highlighting the presence of Leopardus wiedii (Endangered / Near Threatened), Dasyprocta mexicana (Critically Endangered), Potos flavus (Threatened), Galictis vittata (Special Protection), and Mazama temama, a species of hunting value.  The CF and RA recorded 9 and 12 species with 96 % and 100 % completeness, respectively, yielding a similarity value of 63 %.  The species richness in the area is complementary between treatments.  We found opportunistic species in the RA and species less tolerant to disturbance in the CF.  The presence of carnivores reflects the importance of this area for mammal conservation.