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A retrospective analysis of free-ranging crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous; Linnaeus, 1766) admitted to a center dedicated to wildlife medicine and research.

R. S. Ichikawa,A. Melchert,A. B. Magorbo,M. G. Kersul,A. P. Sevá,M. Marques,E. Y. Tokashiki,G. C. Camargo,S. C. Rahal

Published 2025 in Brazilian journal of biology = Revista brasleira de biologia

ABSTRACT

A retrospective analysis was performed on free-ranging crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) admitted to a Center for Wildlife Medicine and Research (CEMPAS), located in Botucatu, during a 9-year period (2013-2021). A total of 73 animals were evaluated, comprising 41 adults, 14 subadults, and 18 pups. Regarding sex, 45 were males, 23 were females, and 5 the information was not provided. The causes of admission included rescued healthy animal (n = 25), animals with fractures due to motor vehicle collision (n = 13), animals with fractures of unknown cause (n = 10), traumatized animals with no fracture (n = 11), and other health conditions (n = 14). The lowest number of admissions was observed in 2019 and 2020. Included all years, the spring showed the highest number of admitted animals. Among the healthy animals, 44% (11/25) remained in the institution, 24% (6/25) died, 16% (4/25) were released back into the wild, 4% (1/25) were submitted to euthanasia, 4% (1/25) escaped from the enclosure and 8% (2/25) had no outcomes information. Regarding individuals with fractures due to motor vehicle collisions, 46.1% (6/13) were submitted to euthanasia, and 30.8% (4/13) were released back to nature, and 23.1% (3/13) died. Of those rescued due to fractures of unknown cause, 50% (5/10) were submitted to euthanasia, 30% (3/10) died, 10% (1/10) remained in the institution, and 10% (1/10) were released back to the nature. The geographic distribution of Cerdocyon thous rescues admitted to CEMPAS between 2013 and 2021 was concentrated in Botucatu and surrounding municipalities, likely reflecting the institution's area of operation. This scenario represents a significant challenge for species conservation and requires the adoption of complementary measures to mitigate its negative impacts. Among these, the implementation of public policies aimed at reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and preventing interactions between domestic animals and wildlife stands out as essential. In summary, most Cerdocyon thous individuals admitted to the CEMPAS were adult males, rescued near paved roads and frequently presenting signs of trauma. These findings highlight the crucial role of Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centers in mitigating anthropogenic threats to wildlife.

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