Contributions on the diet of free-ranging dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) in the Nevado de Toluca Flora and Fauna Protection Area, Estado de México, Mexico

Abstract

Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are an invasive alien species that can negatively impact natural ecosystems due to the potential of predation, competition, or disease transmission. Nonetheless, few studies assess the ecological impacts of these species on protected areas. Our objective was to determine the diet of free-ranging dogs, through scat analysis within the Nevado de Toluca Flora and Fauna Protection Area, Estado de México, Mexico. A total of 130 scat samples from dogs were collected with the help of a bloodhound. Prey items identified in the scats were classified into 6 food categories: Wild mammals, birds, insects, livestock, vegetative matter and human-derived food. Wild mammals were the most frequent category (FO = 62.3%; RO = 40.3%). We present the first evidence of 8 rodents, 1 shrew, and 2 skunk species as part of the diet of free-ranging dogs. Some identified preys are species endemic to Mexico with special protection status according to Mexican law. We recommend following the global-level policies aimed at reducing the population of dogs in Protected Areas.