Estimating density of native carnivores in central Chile landscapes using a simulated movement model, cameratrapR: insights on their potential exotic prey dietary subsidy

A total of 10,046 trap days resulted in 9,120 photographs of carnivores, with 3,888 independent records. Our findings indicate that <i>Lycalopex</i> spp. are the carnivore species with the highest population density in central Chile (4.1-4.8 individuals/km²). Furthermore, their density was higher in the exotic monoculture tree plantation ecotype compared to native forests, suggesting a dietary subsidy from non-native prey. We report the first population density estimates for <i>Conepatus chinga</i> (1.8-2.2 individuals/km²) and <i>Leopardus guigna</i> (0.7-1.3 individuals/km²) in the three landscapes, showing different habitat preferences and resource availabilities across landscapes. The results highlight the complex interactions between carnivores and their environments, particularly the role of exotic introduced species as prey items in shaping native carnivore populations. These findings also provide insights into carnivore adaptability and the implications for biodiversity conservation.