A predation event by free–ranging dogs on the lowland tapir in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Abstract

Dogs are associated with humans and human–dominated landscapes, and when they become feral and free–roaming, they can negatively impact wildlife through processes such as predation. In this study, we report a predation event of free–ranging dogs on lowland tapirs in a protected area (PA) of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. As tapirs can be vulnerable to dog attacks, especially in a protected area surrounded by farming activities, research programmes and monitoring of these areas are crucial to understand the impact of free–ranging domestic species on wildlife. Additionally, education programs and dog control should be incorporated into conservation plans in such areas around PAs.