Faecal marking behaviour in ringtails (Bassariscus astutus) during the non-breeding period: spatial characteristics of latrines and single faeces

摘要: Scent signals are the main source of information transmission in carnivores, being particularly important for those with nocturnal habits like ringtail (Bassariscus astutus), a Procyonid widely distributed Mexico. However, faecal marking behaviour free-ranging ringtails has not been described previously. The aims this study were to describe use latrines and test if single faeces have function, based on spatial characterisation defecation places revisits these sites. was conducted at an urban reserve within Mexico City 2003, where 80 points analysed. results showed that deposit repeatedly same sites (latrines), which contain variable number (between 2 19). distribution random, but selection substrates zones enhanced effectiveness as marks observed. Latrines preferentially placed objects above ground level road margins. inconspicuous generally deposited conspicuous more frequently substrates.