Carnivores (Mammalia) from areas of Nearctic–Neotropical transition in Puebla, central Mexico: presence, distribution, and conservation

Abstract

The Nearctic and Neotropical realms converge in central Mexico, where many areas have not been adequately characterized. Our objective was to revise the distribution and conservation status of carnivores in the state of Puebla, central Mexico. Between September 2008 and January 2011, we conducted interviews and fieldwork on seven previously selected areas. We complemented our data with bibliographical research. We obtained 733 records for 21 species, representing 63% of the carnivores reported for Mexico. We expanded known ranges of three species: Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), Bobcat (Lynx rufus), and Tropical Ringtail (Bassariscus sumichastrii). Fifty percent of the carnivore species we recorded in Puebla are considered under some risk category. We found that carnivores in our study area are vulnerable to hunting pressure, human-carnivore conflicts that result in lethal control practices, and extensive habitat loss.