The infuence of population‑control methods and seasonality on the activity pattern of wild boars (Sus scrofa) in high‑altitude forests.

Abstract

The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is a problematic invasive species which has colonized the threatened Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Our objective was to evaluate if population control and seasonality afect the circadian rhythm of wild boar activity. Wild boar activity was monitored by camera-traps for 1 year without population-control methods and 1 year with populationcontrol methods implemented in the area. Before population control was implemented, wild boar activity was uniform across 24 h, with animals being active at any given time (cathemeral). After the population control, wild boars concentrated their activities on the daylight period. Also, wild boars were more active during the wet season, possibly infuenced by the presence of seeds of Araucaria angustifolia trees. Based on these results, control measures should be conducted during the wet season and diferent management strategies, such as the use of rifes with telescopic sights and silencers, should be tested.