Behavior of jaguarundi Herpailurus yagouaroundi (É. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1803), Carnivora: Felidae, in captivity

Abstract

Felids represent one of the most important groups of mammals, as they are part of food chains. Herpailurus
yagouaroundi (É. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1803), known as the jaguarundi, is a small predator whose populations have
declined due to habitat loss caused by climate change and the expansion of human settlements. To contribute to its
conservation, an ex situ strategy is used, specifically at the Rosy Walther National Center for Conservation and Recovery of
Species (Centro Nacional de Conservación y Recuperación de Especies Rosy Walther), where individuals are protected
outside their natural environment. The animals' behavior was evaluated using ethograms, allowing the presence or absence
of stereotypies to be identified as indicators of their emotional health. Direct observation methods were applied during the
morning shift, starting with the ad libitum modality to obtain preliminary data on behavioral patterns for two days, followed by focal observation, always with direct observation. Camera traps were implemented as part of indirect observation during twilight hours, for more specific records over 15 days. The results show patterns of space use and behavior that can guide management and environmental enrichment strategies in captivity, contributing to the conservation and management of this species under controlled conditions. This study provides valuable information on the behavior of H. yagouaroundi and reinforces the importance of implementing ex situ conservation programs.