Knowledge and use of wildlife in the community of Tetelpa, municipality of Zacatepec, Morelos, Mexico

The objective of the research was to document and analyze the traditional knowledge and modes of use of the native fauna by the inhabitants of the community of Tetelpa, municipality of Zacatepec, Morelos.Several ethnozoological techniques, such as snowball sampling, were applied.Fifty semi-structured interviews were conducted, as well as guided visits to determine the animal species known to the community.Local informants recognize 37 species of wild vertebrates, 43% birds, 30% mammals, 22% reptiles and 5% amphibians.Of this total, 41% (n = 15) have food value, (11) have medicinal value, (7) are used as pets, (5) and ornamental (4).As shown by the value in use index, the species most used by the inhabitants is the rabbit Sylvilagus cunicularius (0.8).In three zones, the most important catch strategy involved the use of firearms, such as the shotgun or the "mound."Of the 37 species cited, 35% (14) are considered harmful and interfere with the inhabitants' agriculture and livestock activities.When asked about the conservation status of native fauna, 92% of informants reported that there is a decrease in animal populations due to deforestation and commercial hunting.We conclude that the inhabitants of the community of Tetelpa have and preserve the traditional knowledge regarding native animals.