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We studied the feeding ecology of Molina's hog-nosed skunk ( Conepatus chinga) in a protected area of the Pampas grassland by comparing the content of scats (140 samples) to prey abundance (estimated by invertebrate capture rates from 38 pitfall trap grids). Fecal analysis supported a largely insectivorous diet, with small vertebrates and carrion representing minor alternative resources. Almost all invertebrate prey was significantly more abundant in the warm period than the cold period, whereas skunk diet did not vary seasonally. Even though Molina's hog-nosed skunks were considered to be opportunistic foragers due to their wide trophic niche, our results indicate that despite their trophic generalism, they consumed several prey items in proportions differing from those expected by their respective availabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the spatial ecology of Geoffroy's cats, Leopardus geoffroyi, living in a protected area surrounded by croplands in the Argentine grasslands. A total of six different adults were marked with 14 radio-collars from 2001 to 2005 but only three (one female and two males) produced a meaningful amount of data (54-135 positions). Total home range size was 8.83±1.58 km2 (100% Minimum Convex Polygon) and 7.27±2.23 km2 (90% Fixed Kernel). Core areas averaged 1.46±0.84 km2. Geoffroy's cats most frequently used Exotic Woodland areas followed by Rocky and Agricultural areas. All cats clearly avoided natural habitats and selected Exotic Woodland at the two levels of selection examined: within the study area and within home ranges. In our study area, Geoffroy's cats' home ranges were larger than all those previously recorded in natural areas. The Geoffroy's cat preference for Exotic Wood patches and avoidance of natural grasslands was likely due to the degradation of natural habitats caused by a dense population of feral horses. We also argue that woodlands can play an important role in the ecology of this species, either as refuge, hunting area or for territorial marking, regardless of their origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]