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Research on the dietary composition of felids can help improve the perception of rural workers and their tolerance towards this group, which is threatened by human-wildlife conflicts. In this context, the purpose of this study was to quantify the diet of Leopardus geoffroyi in Península Valdés (Patagonia, Argentina) to obtain baseline knowledge of the species dietary habits, trophic ecology, and degree of prey consumption. To this end, 160 fresh scat samples, collected from 2013 to 2016, were analyzed. Ten mammal species, one tinamou bird, one lizard genus, and one insect order were identified. The most frequently consumed prey (63.84%) were small-sized mammals (< 1 kg), accounting for the highest biomass contribution (37.2%). The frequency of each mammal species in the diet was not correlated with their capture frequency (measured through Sherman live traps and pedestrian diurnal transects). This study is the first to report on the diet of L. geoffroyi in Argentinean central Patagonia, and it provides information not only on ecological aspects but also on the natural history of this felid species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work documents the stratigraphic distribution of dinoflagellate cysts from the upper part (60–585 m) of the YPF.Ch. PV. es-1 borehole, Península Valdés, Argentina. The assemblages exhibit a relatively moderate to low diversity. Most samples are characterized by frequent to abundant taxa of the order Gonyaulacales, such as Spiniferites/Achomosphaera spp., Reticulatosphaera actinocoronata, Operculodinium centrocarpum, and Melitasphaeridium choanophorum. Furthermore, a continuous succession of Early Miocene–Late Miocene diagnostic dinoflagellate cyst events was recorded for the first time from the Península Valdés region. Eight diagnostic events of highest occurrences (HOs) of dinoflagellate cyst taxa are identified. These bioevents allowed a subdivision of the sedimentary succession into two well-defined stratigraphic sections: Early to Middle Miocene (Burdigalian–Langhian/probably Serravalian, 430/425–330/325 m) based on the HOs of Emmetrocysta urnaformis, Cannosphaeropsis quattrocchiae, Cousteaudinium auybriae, and Cleistosphaeridium ancyreum, and Late Miocene (Tortonian–Messinian, between 175–170 and 80/85 m) based on the HOs of Labyrinthodinium truncatum subsp. truncatum, Operculodinium piaseckii, and Reticulatosphaera actinocoronata. The ranges of these taxa are compared with well-documented information on Neogene dinoflagellate cysts recorded from different sites across the North and South Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas. In general, the dinoflagellate cyst assemblages, as well as the selected diagnostic taxa, exhibit a clear similarity to those of the Northern Hemisphere. The only exception is Hystrichokolpoma rigaudiae, which is asynchronous, possibly indicating local paleoenvironmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina, is one of the top predators inhabiting the Southern Ocean. Foraging at sea represents 80% of their annual cycle, during which they make extraordinary wide-ranging trips with long, deep, and continuous dives. Their feeding habits have been broadly studied using both traditional and advanced techniques, like stable isotope analysis. Here, we analyzed stable isotope ratios of C and N of host and sucking lice tissues to investigate the potential use of lice to infer the isotopic patterns of their host at a major scale while using a less invasive method. We collected samples of blood and lice, Lepidophthirus macrorhini, from 15 weaned pups in Península Valdés (Chubut, Argentina). C and N isotopic signals of lice and pups were correlated. The δ13C values of the lice were not different from those of their hosts, while the δ15N signals were statistically significantly enriched with respect to those of the pups. The isotopic composition of the lice would predictably mirror that of their hosts. However, the values of Δ13C and Δ15N (difference between lice and pup signals) differed from the literature-based reference values for hematophagous ectoparasites, indicating that lice could have changed the host recently or that the residence time in the pups has not been enough. Given that mothers and weaned pups differ isotopically due to lactation, the isotopic composition of lice could therefore be more representative of signals from females, implying a useful and a safe tool for identifying and measuring the magnitude of trophic interactions in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of APUNTES - Journal of Cultural Heritage Studies is the property of Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Se registró por primera vez el comportamiento de homing en Chaetophractus villosus. Se capturaron 33 individuos de C. villosus y se liberaron a diferentes distancias en Península Valdés, Chubut, Argentina. Del total de individuos, el 30 % regresó al punto captura dentro de los 12 días desde la liberación. El tiempo de recaptura aumentó de manera no linear respecto a la distancia, por lo que los puntos de liberación podrían estar fuera de su área de acción. El regreso al sitio de captura posiblemente se debe a que los peludos reconozcan a este sitio como fuente de recursos alimenticios.

Elephant seals, Mirounga spp., are highly dimorphic, having different energetic requirements according to age and sex, and foraging in various ecological and oceanographic contexts. Resource partitioning has been shown for the sub‐Antarctic populations of southern elephant seals, M. leonina, where colonies are surrounded by narrow shelves that deepen abruptly. In contrast, seals from Península Valdés (Argentina), in the northernmost extent of the breeding range, face an extended, shallow, temperate, and productive continental shelf. We integrated tracking data from 98 animals (juveniles and adults, males and females) gathered over more than two decades, and found that although all available habitats were used, individuals segregated by age and sex. Juvenile males favored shelf habitats, whereas subadult and adult males also used the shelf break. Juvenile females preferred the shelf and the more distant Argentine Basin used by postbreeding and postmolt adult females. Males showed the highest proportion of area‐restricted search locations, suggesting more spatially concentrated feeding activity, and likely reflecting a preference for foraging habitat and prey. Our results are consistent with those from other populations, implying that elephant seals show remarkable similarities in habitat use by age and sex classes, despite broad differences in the offshore habitats between sub‐Antarctic and temperate ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

En este trabajo se entrega un listado de 116 especies y subespecies de aves recolectadas y observadas en la Península Valdés y litoral marítimo de Chubut a Isla Quintano. Varias citas significan una ampliación de sus rangos conocidos. También se remiten datos sobre los hábitats y las nuevas zonas de reproducción. Los sitios principales se muestran en un mapa y algunas fotografías de aves documentan material taxidérmico.

Across modified landscapes, anthropic factors can affect habitat selection by animals and consequently their abundance and distribution patterns. The study of the spatial structure of wild populations is crucial to gain knowledge on species’ response to habitat quality, and a key for the design and implementation of conservation actions. This is particularly important for a low-density and widely distributed species such as the mara (Dolichotis patagonum), a large rodent endemic to Argentina across the Monte and Patagonian drylands where extensive sheep ranching predominates. We aimed to assess the spatial variation in the abundance of maras and to identify the natural and anthropic factors influencing the observed patterns in Península Valdés, a representative landscape of Patagonia. We conducted ground surveys during the austral autumn from 2015 to 2017. We built density surface models to account for the variation in mara abundance, and obtained a map of mara density at a resolution of four km2. We estimated an overall density of 0.93 maras.km−2 for the prediction area of 3,476 km2. The location of ranch buildings, indicators of human presence, had a strong positive effect on the abundance of maras, while the significant contribution of the geographic longitude suggested that mara density increases with higher rainfall. Although human presence favored mara abundance, presumably by providing protection against predators, it is likely that the association could bring negative consequences for maras and other species. The use of spatial models allowed us to provide the first estimate of mara abundance at a landscape scale and its spatial variation at a high resolution. Our approach can contribute to the assessment of mara population abundance and the factors shaping its spatial structure elsewhere across the species range, all crucial attributes to identify and prioritize conservation actions.

Background The Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis) population of the South–western Atlantic Ocean is recovering. In the breeding ground of Peninsula Valdés, as a consequence of the population growth, expansion to new areas by some types of groups and a change in the habitat use patterns at the coastal area were recorded. Methods We analysed information gathered from aerial surveys conducted along the coast of Peninsula Valdés in 15 years of effective sampling in a 19-year span. These surveys were divided into four periods (1999–2000; 2004–2007; 2008–2012 and 2013–2016) and estimated the density of whales in a 620 km of coast divided into segments of five km. Results The density of the whales increased to near three whales per km2 (averaged over each period) in the high-density areas. When this mean number was reached, the significant changes in density in the adjacent areas were detected in the following period. These changes were a decrease in density in the high-density areas and an increase of density in the low-density areas. Discussion We propose that a threshold in density elicits a response in habitat use, with the Mother-calf pairs remaining in the area, while the other groups are displaced to new areas.

Anisakid nematodes have a worldwide distribution and are associated with fishes, birds, and marine mammals from freshwater, brackish, and marine systems. The aims of this work are to report for the first time Contracaecum mirounga parasitizing the Magellanic penguin Spheniscus magellanicus, to report another Contracaecum species in the same host species, and to discuss the validity of Contracaeceum spheniscus. Several dead chicks, juveniles, and adults of S. magellanicus were collected along the Argentinean coast from 2002 to 2009. Nematodes were removed from digestive tracts and studied using both light and scanning electron microscopy. Nematode prevalences were 2.38% for C. mirounga and 12.5% for Contracaecum sp. Contracaecum mirounga was found in 1 penguin from Península Valdés, Chubut. This species is known as a specific parasite of marine mammals such as Pinnipedia, thereby suggesting that this nematode is not as specific as believed. Another species of Contracaecum sp. was found parasitizing 1 penguin from the Río de la Plata coast. It possessed an unusual interlabial morphology and arrangement of male caudal papillae. Despite the low prevalence, the distinct morphological features are convincing and support the presence of a new Contracaecum species. However, a formal description is not presented because sufficient male specimens are lacking. Finally, C. spheniscus is considered a junior synonym of Contracaecum pelagicum. Future molecular studies might be helpful to determine the real diversity of Contracaecum species parasitizing S. magellanicus considering the number of sibling species recognized among the anisakids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Across modified landscapes, anthropic factors can affect habitat selection by animals and consequently their abundance and distribution patterns. The study of the spatial structure of wild populations is crucial to gain knowledge on species' response to habitat quality, and a key for the design and implementation of conservation actions. This is particularly important for a low-density and widely distributed species such as the mara (Dolichotis patagonum), a large rodent endemic to Argentina across the Monte and Patagonian drylands where extensive sheep ranching predominates. We aimed to assess the spatial variation in the abundance of maras and to identify the natural and anthropic factors influencing the observed patterns in Península Valdés, a representative landscape of Patagonia. We conducted ground surveys during the austral autumn from 2015 to 2017. We built density surface models to account for the variation in mara abundance, and obtained a map of mara density at a resolution of four km2. We estimated an overall density of 0.93 maras.km-2 for the prediction area of 3,476 km2. The location of ranch buildings, indicators of human presence, had a strong positive effect on the abundance of maras, while the significant contribution of the geographic longitude suggested that mara density increases with higher rainfall. Although human presence favored mara abundance, presumably by providing protection against predators, it is likely that the association could bring negative consequences for maras and other species. The use of spatial models allowed us to provide the first estimate of mara abundance at a landscape scale and its spatial variation at a high resolution. Our approach can contribute to the assessment of mara population abundance and the factors shaping its spatial structure elsewhere across the species range, all crucial attributes to identify and prioritize conservation actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Contamination of groundwater in different parts of the world is a result of natural and/or anthropogenic sources, leading to adverse effects on human health and the ecosystem. In Península Valdés, where groundwater is the only source of supply, high concentrations of As and F- were registered. Since it is a region without industrial activity, an analysis of possible natural sources of contamination is necessary. The aim of this study is to analyse the hydrological processes that determines the presence and mobilization of those elements through the analysis of the mineralogy of the aquifer sediments and the ionic water relationships. The productive aquifer, dominated by psamites, coquinas and siltstone is located between 29 and 42 m below ground surface. The hydrochemistry studied from 105 sampling points, shows that groundwater is dominated by Na-Cl ions and, in the fresh water sectors, the ionic type is Na-HCO3 to Na-Cl. In 17 of these samples, Zn, Cr, Mn, As, V, Sr, Fe, F ions were measured and As and F contents above the potability limit were recorded. These contents vary between 0.01 and 0.40 mg/L in As and between 0.31 and 4 in F- which are both associated with elevated V values. The optical petrographic microscope observations and the X-ray diffraction measurements show that the sediments are dominated by volcanic lithic fragments, volcanic glass shards and quartz, plagioclase, pyroxenes and magnetite clasts. The scanning electron microscopy, combined with the energy dispersive X-ray analysis, shows that the highest concentrations of As are associated with volcanic shards and iron oxides. The combined analysis of all these elements leads to conclude that the processes which explain the presence of those ions are a result of the interaction of groundwater with the components of the aquifer sediments. At alkaline pH, the high solubility of the amorphous silica of vitreous shards allows the release of As, V and F- ions towards the solution. Thus, adsorption-desorption processes can also control the presence of these ions in groundwater. Both As and V (in solution in the form of oxyanions) can be adsorbed by iron oxides, while F- anions have more affinity to be adsorbed by the carbonate facies, some of them re-precipitated as a result of the increase in pH. The identified hydrogeological processes provide information for the planning of water purification measures that tend to improve the water resources management in a large arid region of Patagonia. Highlights • The As, V and F presence in the groundwater of Peninsula Valdes is due to a natural origin. • Volcanic particles and iron oxides of the Miocene sediments shows the highest As concentrations. • Groundwater pH conditions the volcanic shards dissolution and therefore the As, V and F release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on aerial surveys conducted to estimate the relative abundance and trend in growth of the southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) population from Península Valdés. The number of whales counted tripled from 1999 to 2016. We modeled the number of whales, the number of calves, the number of solitary individuals and the number of individuals in breeding groups using as predictive variables the year, Julian day, and Julian day2 by means of generalized linear models. The rate of increase decreased from near 7% in 2007 to 0.06% and 2.30% for total number of whales and number of calves, respectively for 2016. Trends in the rates of increase for total number of whales and number of calves were negative (−0.732% and −0.376%, respectively). The habitat use of the whales changed along the years, with mothers and calves using more heavily the near‐shore strip, resulting in a decreasing trend for solitary individuals and breeding groups in near‐shore waters. We conclude that whales are still increasing their abundance, while the rate of increase is decreasing. Differences in the rates of increase of the group types and changes in habitat use are thought to be the consequence of a density‐dependence process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis) population of the South–western Atlantic Ocean is recovering. In the breeding ground of Peninsula Valdés, as a consequence of the population growth, expansion to new areas by some types of groups and a change in the habitat use patterns at the coastal area were recorded. Methods: We analysed information gathered from aerial surveys conducted along the coast of Peninsula Valdés in 15 years of effective sampling in a 19-year span. These surveys were divided into four periods (1999–2000; 2004–2007; 2008–2012 and 2013–2016) and estimated the density of whales in a 620 km of coast divided into segments of five km. Results: The density of the whales increased to near three whales per km² (averaged over each period) in the high-density areas. When this mean number was reached, the significant changes in density in the adjacent areas were detected in the following period. These changes were a decrease in density in the high-density areas and an increase of density in the low-density areas. Discussion: We propose that a threshold in density elicits a response in habitat use, with the Mother-calf pairs remaining in the area, while the other groups are displaced to new areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gulfs that surround Península Valdés (PV), Golfo Nuevo and Golfo San José in Argentina, are important calving grounds for the southern right whale Eubalaena australis . However, high calf mortality events in recent years could be associated with phycotoxin exposure. The present study evaluated the transfer of domoic acid (DA) from Pseudo-nitzschia spp., potential producers of DA, to living and dead right whales via zooplanktonic vectors, while the whales are on their calving ground at PV. Phytoplankton and mesozooplankton (primary prey of the right whales at PV and potential grazers of Pseudo-nitzschia cells) were collected during the 2015 whale season and analyzed for species composition and abundance. DA was measured in plankton and fecal whale samples (collected during whale seasons 2013, 2014 and 2015) using liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The genus Pseudo-nitzschia was present in both gulfs with abundances ranging from 4.4 × 10 2 and 4.56 × 10 5 cell l −1 . Pseudo-nitzschia australis had the highest abundance with up to 4.56 × 10 5 cell l −1 . DA in phytoplankton was generally low, with the exception of samples collected during a P. australis bloom. No clear correlation was found between DA in phytoplankton and mesozooplankton samples. The predominance of copepods in mesozooplankton samples indicates that they were the primary vector for the transfer of DA from Pseudo-nitzschia spp. to higher trophic levels. High levels of DA were detected in four whale fecal samples (ranging from 0.30 to 710 μg g −1 dry weight of fecal sample or from 0.05 and 113.6 μg g −1 wet weight assuming a mean water content of 84%). The maximum level of DA detected in fecal samples (710 μg DA g −1 dry weight of fecal sample) is the highest reported in southern right whales to date. The current findings demonstrate for the first time that southern right whales, E. australis , are exposed to DA via copepods as vectors during their calving season in the gulfs of PV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According with academic research and the actors involved, the relationship between tourism an environmental preservation is seen in a positive way. In this relationship, preservated areas are seen previous from the tourist use, and it definition as a preservated area is independent from tourism. Tour-ism and tourism business only take advantage of these previous areas to transform them in tourist attrac-tive. The aim of this paper is to analyze critically the tourist valorization process of Peninsula Valdés. This article inquires the relationship between tourism and environmental preservation, observing that environmental preservation areas aren’t previous and independent from tourism.and independent.

Península Valdés ( PV) in Argentina is an important calving ground for southern right whales ( SRWs, Eubalaena australis). Since 2005, right whale mortality has increased at PV, with most of the deaths (~90%) being calves <3 mo old. We investigated the potential involvement of harmful algal blooms ( HABs) in these deaths by examining data that include: timing of the SRW deaths, biotoxins in samples from dead SRWs, abundances of the diatom, Pseudo-nitzschia spp., and the dinoflagellate, Alexandrium tamarense, shellfish harvesting closure dates, seasonal availability of whale prey at PV and satellite chlorophyll data. Evidence of the whales' exposure to HAB toxins includes trace levels of paralytic shellfish toxins ( PSTs) and domoic acid ( DA) in tissues of some dead whales, and fragments of Pseudo-nitzschia spp. frustules in whale feces. Additionally, whales are present at PV during both closures of the shellfish industry (due to high levels of PSTs) and periods with high levels of Pseudo-nitzschia spp. and A. tamarense. There is a positive statistical relationship between monthly Pseudo-nitzschia densities (but not A. tamarense) and calf deaths in both gulfs of PV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Península Valdés (PV) in Argentina is an important calving ground for the southern right whale Eubalaena australis . However, a high mortality of calves has been observed in the last years, which could be associated with phycotoxin exposure. During a sampling program conducted late in the calving seasons of 2004, 2005 and 2010, potentially toxic species of the genus Pseudo-nitzschia were observed to be an important component of the phytoplankton community and they were also found in fecal samples of two live whales and three stranded whales. In line with this, in the present study Pseudo-nitzschia australis, Pseudo-nitzschia fraudulenta, Pseudo-nitzschia pungens and the complex Pseudo-nitzschia pseudodelicatissima were identified in fecal samples and phytoplankton samples by light and electron microscopy. Although no toxin analysis was carried out in the present study, our findings suggest that E. australis could be exposed to domoic acid in their calving ground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Intersecciones en Antropología is the property of Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were assessed in blubber from 35 dead Southern Right Whales (SRW — Eubalaena australis ) stranded at Península Valdés, Argentina. The life cycle includes a feeding period in high productivity areas of the South West Atlantic and a reproductive period in coastal template waters of Argentina. Organochlorine pesticides showed higher concentrations (22.6 ± 13.8 ng·g − 1 ww) than PCBs (7.5 ± 10 ng·g − 1 ww). Among pesticides, HCHs, DDTs, endosulfans, dieldrin, chlordans, heptachlor epoxide, and trans-nonachlor were detected. p , p ′-DDE and p , p ′-DDT were present in 69% and 26% of samples, respectively. p , p ′-DDT/ p , p ′-DDE ratio showed low values (< 0.33) as a result of aged DDT inputs. However, the occurrence of only p , p ′-DDT in some samples suggests a recent pesticide input. α-HCH/γ-HCH ratio (< DL-0.37) indicated no recent contribution of technical HCH mixture and/or current use of lindane. Dieldrin was present in 77% of the samples and endosulfan was detected in all samples with predominance of α- (75%) over β-endosulfan (19%) and scarce contribution of endosulfan sulphate (7%), suggesting a recent input of this insecticide to the environment in the SRW foraging area. A predominance of pentachlorobiphenyls was observed. In 21 samples at least one PCB indicator was found and PCB #118, highly toxic, contributed in 5% to total PCBs. Although all these organochlorine compounds are forbidden they were bioaccumulated in the blubber of SRW with a predominance of endosulfans, the more recently used pesticide. The absence of data on chemical pollutants in stranded dead whales is highlighted as a priority for research. This is the first study on levels, compositional patterns, and organochlorine sources in SRW. Moreover, more research including milk, and other tissues/organs is recommended considered that in the studied specimens, mostly calves, pollutants are likely transferred from the mother during pregnancy and nursing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on marine mammal habitat-associations often uses satellite remote sensing of sea surface temperature, chlorophyll concentration, and sea surface height to map mesoscale features, which may indicate areas of enhanced productivity and prey availability. However, for species that feed at depths >400 m, the increased productivity associated with mesoscale features observed near the surface may have little or no immediate effect on habitat-associations at depth. As a result, previous studies have found a weak correlation between mesoscale features and the movements of marine mammals. The advantage of biologging is that hydrographic variables are recorded in situ and at foraging depths using animal-borne instruments with sensors for temperature, conductivity (salinity), and dissolved oxygen. The goal of this study was to characterize the habitat-associations of female southern elephant seals (SES) from Península Valdés, Argentina during the post-breeding foraging trip. Although female SES exhibited significant habitat-associations with sea surface height anomaly and chlorophyll concentrations, the presence or absence of eddies was not predictive of foraging behavior, and the majority of foraging dives (74%) and prey encounters (77%) occurred in the absence of eddies. The strongest habitat-association was with deep (>500 m) and cold (3.73 ± 1.29 °C) subantarctic water, primarily during foraging dives from dusk to dawn. Female SES made most of their foraging dives (68%, mean maximum depth of 539 ± 226 m) and had the most prey encounters (67%) in Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW), which is formed near the Subantarctic Front on the northern flank of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. Our results suggest that AAIW is the principal foraging habitat of female SES from Península Valdés, which may not be directly associated with near-surface mesoscale features. Future research on the habitat-associations for SES and other deep-diving marine mammals should focus on indices of foraging success and the hydrographic features of water masses at foraging depths, not mesoscale features observed near the surface. • Female southern elephant seals foraged mainly in Antarctic Intermediate Water. • The strongest habitat-association was with deep and cold subantarctic water. • The presence or absence of eddies was not predictive of foraging behavior or success. • Mesoscale features can affect depth of subantarctic water masses where elephant seals forage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Penguin colonies are highly visited worldwide. Although several studies have addressed how penguins behaviorally respond to tourist visitation at a point in time, nothing is known about their response across the entire breeding season. Furthermore, behavioral responses are driven by complex physiological processes and the basal physiological state of the individual might affect the way it responds to stimuli. To test the hypothesis that annual changes in corticosterone result from animals having different requirements for expressing (or not) the glucocorticoid-mediated behaviors at different times of the year in the context of tourist visitation, we examined circulating and stress-induced corticosterone in Magellanic penguins ( Spheniscus magellanicus) from non-visited areas from the San Lorenzo colony, Peninsula Valdes, Argentina across the breeding season. We also examined the behavioral responses of penguins to a pedestrian approach in tourist-visited and non-visited areas of the colony across the season. Our results showed that circulating levels of corticosterone did not vary across the season; however, stress-induced corticosterone was lowest during molt. Our behavioral results showed that penguins displayed different behavior responses at varying distances depending on the area (visited or non-visited) and stage in the season. Penguins in the tourist area were more tolerant to a human approach than penguins in the non-tourist area. During settlement and molt, penguins showed higher occurrence of behaviors related to self-survival (such as standing, moving farther into the nest, and fleeing), whereas during incubation and chick rearing, penguins displayed mostly a behavior associated with defense and vigilance (such as alternate head turns). Furthermore, penguins allowed a closer approach during incubation, but elicited a subsequent behavior quicker than in the rest of the stages, suggesting that they would be particularly sensitive in this stage. Overall, our results suggest that corticosterone release across the season is more associated with penguins' survival in an extreme environment than with behavioral regulation. From a conservation perspective, we identified that penguins were more sensitive to human approach during incubation, but also molt should be considered as a vulnerable stage because corticosterone secretion is suppressed. © 2014 The Wildlife Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to describe associations between several species of seabirds and dusky dolphins. We investigated during what dolphin activities seabirds were most commonly associated, and the size of flock in relation to the number of dolphins in a group. Since both seabirds and dolphins may display different feeding strategies, we also investigated if benefits differed among seabird species. Data were collected in Golfo Nuevo (42°20′S65°00′W) on-board a research vessel between 2001 and 2008. A total of 224 mixed groups of seabirds were encountered during this study. The seabird–dolphin associations were mainly observed during dusky dolphin surface feeding. Shearwaters and kelp gulls were mainly observed in flocks that were associated with dolphins, while Magellanic penguins and cormorants were mainly observed without dolphins. Seabirds may be conditioned to the foraging strategy of dolphins, since birds are associated with dolphins only during dolphin surface feeding. This association probably helped seabirds to find prey, but there were no obvious benefits to dolphins. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article presents a study which examined whether reverse movements of red knots occurred during their migration in Argentina. Resightings of birds individually marked in San Antonio Oeste or the flyway at two staging sites in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010 were analysed to investigate whether reverse movements occurred between them. The movements were found to have occurred in all years of the study.

The Natural Protected Area Peninsula Valdés, located in Northeastern Patagonia, is one of the largest conservation units of arid lands in Argentina. Although this area has been in the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999, it has been continually exposed to sheep grazing and cattle farming for more than a century which have had a negative impact on the local environment. Our aim is to describe the first dataset of tenebrionid beetle species living in Peninsula Valdés and their relationship to sheep grazing. The dataset contains 118 records on 11 species and 198 adult individuals collected. Beetles were collected using pitfall traps in the two major environmental units of Peninsula Valdés, taking into account grazing intensities over a three year time frame from 2005-2007. The Data quality was enhanced following the best practices suggested in the literature during the digitalization and geo-referencing processes. Moreover, identification of specimens and current accurate spelling of scientific names were reviewed. Finally, post-validation processes using DarwinTest software were applied. Specimens have been deposited at Entomological Collection of the Centro Nacional Patagónico (CENPAT-CONICET). The dataset is part of the database of this collection and has been published on the internet through GBIF Integrated Publishing Toolkit (IPT) (http://data.gbif.org/datasets/resource/14669/). Furthermore, it is the first dataset for tenebrionid beetles of arid Patagonia available in GBIF database, and it is the first one based on a previously designed and standardized sampling to assess the interaction between these beetles and grazing in the area. The main purposes of this dataset are to ensure accessibility to data associated with Tenebrionidae specimens from Peninsula Valdés (Chubut, Argentina), also to contribute to GBIF with primary data about Patagonian tenebrionids and finally, to promote the Entomological Collection of Centro Nacional Patagónico (CENPAT- CONICET) and its associated biodiversity data. For these reasons, we believe that this information will certainly be useful for future faunistic, ecological, conservational and biogeographical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La relación entre el turismo y la preservación ambiental es asumida por gran parte de los estudios del tema y actores involucrados como una relación positiva. Las áreas preservadas son conside- radas anteriores a su uso por parte del turismo, al tiempo que su definición como tal es independiente. El turismo y el negocio turístico simplemente aprovecharían las áreas preservadas preexistentes en un lugar transformándolas en atractivo. Este artículo presenta resultados de una investigación realizada con el fin de analizar el proceso de valorización turística de Península Valdés. Se indaga sobre las vinculaciones existentes entre el turismo y la preservación ambiental, observándose que las áreas preservadas no son ni independientes ni preexistentes de su valorización por parte del turismo.

This study analyzed fine-scale habitat selection of southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) on Península Valdés, Patagonia, Argentina, during a decade of population stability. The results showed repeatability and consistency in harem formation in a predictable manner and according to specific environmental characteristics. Censuses were conducted during the peak of the breeding seasons (2001 to 2007 and 2010), and ten topographic variables were surveyed along 12 km of coast. The breeding social context was associated with certain topographic variables. Reproductive groups tended to occur in bays sheltered by cliffs with accessible beaches of slope less than 4° and unconsolidated substrates. The nonreproductive groups were found on shelf points. The spatial distribution reported herein will contribute to the understanding of the large-scale distribution of breeding groups on Península Valdés and other breeding colonies of southern elephant seals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildlife viewing spectacles that are accessible to the public are immensely popular, raise revenue, contribute to livelihoods, create awareness, and often sup-port conservation. When spectacles are in the commons, they are vulnerable to overuse and ruin. Our aim was to identify best practices that provide access to the animals without disturbing them. Herein, we examine spectacles where thousands of people may view thousands of wild animals at predictable sites and times. We describe the viewing programs at three distinct sites where elephant seals (Mirounga sp.) breed: Año Nuevo and Piedras Blancas in California, and Península Valdés in Argentina. We compare the viewing operations with respect to mission, resources and accessibility, and the relationship between viewer number and colony growth, and then we report on the quality of the viewing experience. For best practices, we drew on 67 years of summed field research on these animals by both of us and with our familiarity with viewing programs at these sites. We conclude that five practices reduce viewer impact and enhance the viewing experience: (1) restricting visitor numbers and access to the animals; (2) monitoring impact of viewing on the animals and their habitat; (3) encouraging fundamental research of the animals on site; (4) using trained volunteer guides to interpret the attraction when possible; and (5) requiring independent oversight of commercial operations. All wildlife viewing operations could benefit from adherence to these practices when applicable. At their best, wildlife viewing spectacles are a showcase for sound conservation management and provide an inspirational experience that, for many, is akin to visiting the most sacred cultural places of humankind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The presence of essential (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Ni and Al) and non-essential trace metals (Cd and Pb) was tested in liver (N =26) and kidney (N =42) from dead Southern Right Whale (SRW –Eubalaena australis) calves found beached in Península Valdés, Argentina. Essential metals were detected in all samples, particularly in hepatic tissue; though Ni and Al were accumulated mainly in the kidney. Cd and Pb were not detected in any samples. Sex and length of calves did not influence metal levels found, nor did the geographic location of carcasses. Our findings for essential metals were similar to those reported for mysticetes in other parts of the world. Except for a previous report on one SRW calf, this is the first data on trace metals for this species in Patagonia. This information is vital for SRW management considering increasing human pressures impacting their feeding and breeding grounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A new vertebrate faunal assemblage was recently discovered from the uppermost part of the late Miocene Puerto Madryn Formation. These deposits crop out along the southwestern coast of the Península Valdés area near Punta Delgada (Chubut Province, Argentina). The exhumed vertebrate fauna includes a range of fish, bird and mammal taxa, of which the latter are most varied and abundant. The new findings represent the first record of continental fossil vertebrates in the Puerto Madryn Formation and this is the first assemblage of late Miocene continental vertebrates recorded to the south of Río Negro Province. It also includes the southernmost record of Hydrochoeridae rodents, Dendrocygninae birds and Loricariidae fishes. The mammals suggest that the fossil-bearing sediments are Huayquerian in age. The climate during the accumulation of late Miocene deposits in this region is inferred to have been warmer and seasonally drier than that of today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We studied the diet of the Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) through 1-year pellet analysis in the southern portion of the Monte Desert, Patagonia. The pellets were collected in Protected Natural Area Península Valdés, Chubut, Argentina. We identified 3787 individual prey items belonging to 19 prey species in 589 pellets analyzed and we found a mean of 1.36±0.65 vertebrate individuals (range=1–4) per pellet. Insecta were the main prey items accounting for 51.9% of individuals consumed, followed by Chelicerata (25.3%) and Mammalia (20.9%). However, the greatest contribution of biomass to owl diets came from the consumption of small rodents (94.4%). Our results suggest that the Burrowing Owl were mainly nocturnal hunters and evidenced a generalist diet, consuming a wide spectrum of prey items, including invertebrates (insects and chelicerates), and several types of vertebrates (mammals, birds and lizards). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Although maras (Dolichotis patagonum) are among the most representative mammals of South America, knowledge on the ecological processes affecting their conservation is scarce. In particular, the study of habitat requirements and its relationship with breeding success is necessary to identify possible threats and develop conservation action for this endemic mammal. I investigated habitat selection patterns by maras and their relationship with breeding success in Península Valdés, Argentine Patagonia. Maras bred from mid-August to late December, and they tended to build the breeding warrens in open, grass-dominated habitats more than expected while avoided closed habitats dominated by taller shrubs. Mean number of breeding adults per warren was 4.26, while mean number of pups born per warren was 4.46. Overall, 30 (45%) of 67 pups survived until the 6th week of life, but pups born in warrens located in open habitats survived significantly better than pups born in warrens located in closed habitats (50% vs. 30% of the pups born). As grass-dominated areas uphold the highest densities of domestic sheep and habitat modification due to overgrazing is a widespread process across arid Patagonia, effects on the availability of suitable breeding sites for maras are likely to occur and require further investigation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper reports on sightings and dispersion of individual southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of South America based on reports of tagged/marked seals from Patagonia and of animals of unknown origin. From 154 sightings, encompassing at least 354 individuals, we found that individuals dispersed to subequatorial latitudes on both sides of the continent, and to more temperate sites, in the Magellanic region of Tierra del Fuego. Nineteen sites were visited by tagged seals from the established colony of Peninsula Valdés (PV, Argentina). PV and the smaller seal population of the Falklands/Malvinas were regularly connected by adults of both sexes. There were more sightings of males than females. No incipient new breeding colonies were found along the Atlantic coast of South America. Some observations coincided with places where elephant seals had been recorded or exploited in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. A shortage of suitable habitat for expansion and proximity to predictable food could act as a stabilizing process preventing colonization of new areas from PV. Dispersion data, coherent with population genetics, support a Patagonian elephant seal stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of software able to provide individual recognition of southern elephant seals, as a tool to study colonies. This analysis was performed within a framework of studies concerning environmental dispersion produced by the El Niño Southern Oscillation effect in the Southern Ocean Ecosystem. Digital photographs of reproductive female elephant seals were taken at Punta Norte (Península Valdés, Patagonia; 42°05′ S, 63°45′ W) during the 2002 breeding season (August to November). The data set under analysis is composed of 96 elephant seal images for a population of 56 individuals. Identification of specimens was carried out using digital pictures taken with a digital video camera, and processed through the‘ Eigenfaces’ method, which is based on principal components analysis. Special care was taken to control possible variations among images of the same individual, like distance, angle, light intensity, etc. To deal with these variations, an initial alignment procedure is proposed to have all images framed; in addition an initial histogram equalization was used which attenuates any potential variation in light intensity. The software was developed in IDL5.5 language. A complete set of empirical results is displayed showing the potential effectiveness of this technique. Individual recognition and pertinence to different population subsets (harems) tests have been carried out. A principal result of this work is that all 96 elephant seal images (representing 56 individuals) were correctly identified. The Eigenfaces method can be used successfully for identification of elephant seals. With the appropriate preparatory treatment of images, high performance results can be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study describes the annual cycle of southern elephant seals for the increasing colony of Peninsula Valdés, and compares it to the haul-out pattern reported for stable or decreasing sub-Antarctic colonies of the species. Data were collected during censuses of the entire colony (nine breeding seasons, two moulting seasons and one autumn--winter haul-out), monthly surveys of coastline and mark-recapture of pups. Pup production during the study period grew from 12 113 to 14 621 animals (1995-2003). Most relevant events of the cycle were similar for all colonies studied, independent of the geographical location, size or population trend. Compared with other locations where southern elephant seals breed and moult, distinct features for Peninsula Valdés were: i) breeding occurs earlier in the spring, and ii) most adult females reproduce and moult in the same colony. The increasing number of animals ashore was correlated with the expansion in pup production. Population trends and stability of demographic events could be related to a consistent physical environment (ocean fronts) during foraging phases of the annual cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]