Vertebrates visiting natural waterholes in a tropical seasonal habitat in central México

Abstract

The spatial and temporal distribution of water availability impacts the behavior of species.  Particularly in arid habitats, waterholes are sources of water for many species.  Herein, records of vertebrates are describing visiting natural waterholes by camera traps during the dry season in a dry tropical forest of central México.  During the dry season (December 2015, May 2016, and April-May 2019), we placed seven camera traps during 135 days in seven waterholes.  This method was used as part of monitoring and conservation activities, implemented within an extensive wildlife management unit in central México.  We recorded a total of 20 vertebrates visiting the waterholes: 15 mammals, four birds, and one reptile.  The coexistence between species without negative interactions, and some recorded conduct included: playful behavior, grooming and rubbing against stones; we observed some species waiting for their turn to drink.  At least four individuals of Mephitis macroura were identified.  Our study also emphasizes a basic aspect, but perhaps underestimated in recent years resulting from the use of camera traps: the qualitative observation of animals through photos.  These observations can reveal basic and interesting aspects of the natural history of species that allow us to improve the knowledge about coexistence in the same place.