First record of margay (Leopardus wiedii) in cloud forest of Guatemala

Abstract

The margay (Leopardus wiedii) is a small to medium-sized Neotropical felid classified as endangered in Guatemala.  Non-invasive methods have been recommended to detect elusive species with nocturnal habits in tropical environments.  In this work, we present the first photographic record of margay in the Mario Dary Rivera University Biotope for Quetzal Conservation, department of Baja Verapaz using camera traps.  This record represents the highest altitude observation for this species in the cloud forests of Guatemala.  We used 7 camera traps, 4 LeafRiver ™ model C-1BU with Canon © Sure Shot Owl camera, and 3 DeerCam (860 Park Lane, Park Falls WI 54551).  The camera traps were installed for 16 consecutive days (February 21 to March 8, 2008), and programmed to take pictures and with the date and hour of each photo recorded automatically.  With a total effort of 110 traps/night, we obtained one record of margay in one camera trap in a cloud forest, confirming the presence of this feline at 1,770 m.  This photographic record is the first confirmed evidence of the presence of margay in the cloud forest of the Mario Dary Rivera University Biotope for Quetzal Conservation, at 3.3 km southeast of the municipal town of Purulhá.  We recommend the implementation of long-term monitoring programs within the area using camera traps, aiming to investigate elusive species with nocturnal-crepuscular habits to promote conservation strategies.