Bolivia and Peru – A long-term scientific study has revealed new insights into the short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis), one of the most elusive carnivores in Latin America and among the least known canids in the world.

Due to its highly secretive behavior, sharp hearing, and strong sense of smell, the species is rarely seen in the wild, leaving researchers with very few direct observations over many years.

The new study, published in an open-access journal, provides the most detailed picture yet of this mysterious Amazonian predator based on extensive camera trap records collected over decades.

Over nearly 25 years, scientists compiled 500 distribution records in Bolivia and conducted 34 intensive camera trap surveys across lowland regions of Bolivia and Peru, including the Greater Madidi-Tambopata and Llanos de Moxos areas.

This effort produced 594 independent photographic records, forming the largest verified dataset ever assembled for the species across its range.

Lead researcher Robert Wallace explained that remote sensing and camera traps were key to understanding the animal, allowing researchers to document a species previously considered extremely difficult to study.

The images show a distinctive animal with a dark coat ranging from blackish gray to reddish-brown, a large head, small rounded ears, short legs, and a long bushy tail. It also has partially webbed paws, a unique trait among Amazonian canids.

Researchers were surprised by the findings, noting that the species is more abundant than previously believed.

They estimate around 15 individuals per 100 square kilometers and report that it is more common than jaguars, though less common than medium-sized carnivores such as ocelots.

The species is primarily active during the daytime, with peak activity between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

The study also confirms it is a forest specialist, preferring terra firme upland forests away from rivers, which helps explain why it remains so rarely observed.

Researchers found higher abundance in protected national areas and Indigenous territories compared to unprotected regions.

They emphasize that conservation of the species depends on protecting continuous Amazon forest cover through protected areas and sustainable management of Indigenous territories.

Keywords: Amazon, GhostDog, ShortEaredDog, AtelocynusMicrotis, Wildlife, Carnivore, Bolivia, Peru, CameraTraps, Conservation, Forest, Biodiversity

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