Actual and Potential Distribution of the Maned Wolf in Argentina

Valeria Salvatori

An investigation into the distribution and status of the maned wolf in Argentina.

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The maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) is endemic to the Neotropical region. The species' ecology is poorly known and no information is currently available for developing a management plan. The identification of areas where the species is actually present and those potentially suitable for the presence of the maned wolf is vital for the long-term conservation of this species.

At a local scale, habitat modification caused by agricultural activities and the persecution for its reputation as a domestic animal predator are the major threats to its conservation. At a regional scale, the fragmentation of suitable areas and subsequent isolation of original populations may be fatal to the species.

The aim of this project is to produce maps that identify areas associated with different degrees of suitability for the conservation of the maned wolf in Argentina, covering four administrative Provinces. Involvement of local people will increase public awareness and stimulate direct contribution to the project through information provision. The possibility to extend the study to the whole distribution range (i.e., Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay) will be explored and assessed in terms of feasibility and duration.

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