Invasive domestic dogs prey on wild mammals in Atlantic Rainforest fragments of southern Brazil

Abstract

Invasive exotic species impact native fauna adversely and are one of the leading causes of global biodiversity change. The domestic dog can be classified as an invasive species after its access to natural areas followed by their ability to survive independently of human intervention. In Brazil, the effects of dog predation and hunting on wildlife remains unclear. In this study, we report five wild-mammal predation events involving domestic dogs in fragments of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (northern Paraná State, Brazil). Between June and September 2018, we found that specimens of Didelphis albiventris (white-eared opossum), Dasypus novemcinctus (nine-banded armadillo), Sapajus nigritus (black capuchin), and Eira barbara (tayra) were killed by domestic dogs in both urban and rural areas. Invasive domestic dogs can pose a risk to wildlife, especially to threatened species. We suggest that diversified measures be taken to impede and reduce the access of these animals to forest fragments. Furthermore, our findings indicate that control, containment, and eradication measures can reduce the negative effects of domestic dogs on wildlife.

Keywords

• Canis lupus familiaris
• Cão feral
• Conservação
• Espécie exótica
• Predação