| Popis: |
Natal dens are critical for reproduction in bears, yet we know virtually nothing of Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) denning ecology, nor whether female Andean bears select dens or den sites with specific characteristics. We analyzed data from 2008 to 2013 on characteristics of 8 natal dens (shelter and surroundings within 5 m) and den sites (context at ≥50 m from den) used by 4–5 females, with 21 potential (suitable but unused) natal dens and 30 potential den sites in the equatorial dry forest of Cerro Venado, Lambayeque, Peru. All observed natal dens were preexisting cavities under rocks, 2 m (242.3 ± 32.97 cm) and minimum vertical height within the resting area was |
