Estudio comparativo de las marcas de dientes producidas por dos pequeños carnívoros sudamericanos

Abstract

In the following paper we present the preliminary results of an experimental study performed with Pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) and Geoffroy’s cat (Leopardus geoffroyi). The objectives are to characterize the tooth mark patterns generated by each carnivore on non ingested bone of a small mammal and evaluate if there exists differences in these patterns. Results indicate that both carnivores generate similar types and proportions of modifications; however, the average number of marks per specimen is double for the Pampas fox. The preliminary information obtained here indicates that the size of the pits does not appear to be a sufficient diagnostic criterion to distinguish the action of these two predators.