Unraveling the ecological interactions: Exploring prey selection and human-wildlife conflicts in the diet of pumas (Puma concolor) in the highlands of the Tarapacá Region, Chile

Abstract

The puma (Puma concolor) is a top predator, known for its adaptability and opportunistic behavior. This study examines its diet in the highlands of the Tarapacá Region (Chile) based on fecal samples collected during two field campaigns conducted in July 2012 and January 2013 (a total of 60 days), aiming to determine the presence of domestic livestock in its diet and assess its preference compared to wildlife. A total of fifteen food items were identified, with the alpaca (Vicugna pacos) as the primary prey, representing 47 % of the relative biomass. In second place, lamb (Ovis orientalis) contributed 16 % of the total consumed biomass. Applying the Ivlev preference index, the results indicate a stronger selection for wildlife over domestic livestock. Although the puma’s diet is diverse, as documented in North America and southern Chile, the highland puma of Tarapacá exhibits a specialization in artiodactyls.