Abundance and activity patterns of the endangered margay ( Leopardus wiedii) in temperate forest remnants from the avocado landscape in Mexico

Abstract

A survey was done to estimate margay abundance and activity in the context of high forest loss rates from avocado plantations for the temperate forest region of Michoacán state. Camera trap surveys were conducted from November 2015 to April 2020, recording 21 Margay detections of seven individuals. The capture rate ranged from 0.09 to 0.83 records/100 trap nights. The mean temporal density was 0.12 ind./km ², with an activity peak between 04:00 and 05:00 h. The Margay could serve as indicator species for restoration and forest conservation initiatives.