Population dynamics and habitat use of cervids in southern Argentine Mesopotamia

Cervids constitute one of the most representative mammalian groups inhabiting the natural environments of the Argentine Mesopotamia; however, ecological information regarding their population patterns within productive systems associated with natural habitats remains limited. The aim of this study was to analyze the relative abundance, activity patterns, and temporal overlap between the exotic Axis axis and the native Subulo gouazoubira in two characteristic natural environments of southern Argentine Mesopotamia: native forest and riparian forest. The study was conducted in the Protected Natural Area “La Esmeralda” (Entre Ríos, Argentina) using camera traps deployed between July 2022 and January 2024. Relative abundance indices, circadian activity patterns through Kernel Density and STN analyses, temporal overlap coefficients, and population density estimations were calculated. Axis axis exhibited higher relative abundances in both environments, particularly within riparian forests, demonstrating high ecological and temporal plasticity. In contrast, Subulo gouazoubira showed lower abundances and predominantly crepuscular activity associated with environments characterized by greater vegetation cover. Both species were classified as cathemeral; however, continuous analyses revealed important functional differences, with axis deer displaying more flexible and extended activity patterns. Temporal overlap was high in both environments, although more variable within native forests. These findings provide relevant ecological information for understanding the coexistence of native and exotic cervids within the natural environments of the Argentine Espinal.