Lowland Interior-Forest Stream Habitat of Galictis vittata (Carnivora: Mustelidae) on the Las Piedras Tributary, Southeastern Peru.

Abstract

Records of Galictis vittata (Greater Grison) from the Amazon basin are sparse, particularly in the Madre de Dios region, where only three records have been published. This study elaborates on seven observations of Galictis vittata within and near small interior forest streams of the Las Piedras tributary in Madre de Dios, Peru. While G. vittata inhabits terrestrial environments, it has also been observed in association with aquatic habitats in parts of its range. Although limited to seven observations, all documented sightings of G. vittata in the Las Piedras region have been associated with stream ecosystems. Based on our records, prior research from the region, and known natural history of the species, we hypothesize that streams are a preferred habitat in Amazon rainforests. Additionally, we provide behavioral notes associated with the encounters.

Keywords

• Amazon
• Habitat
• Greater Grison
• Stream