Data from: Human activities influence the occupancy probability of mammalian carnivores in the Brazilian Caatinga

The Caatinga is a semi-arid domain, characterized by reduced humidity and
high rates of anthropogenic impact. In addition to the low availability of
water, carnivorous mammals are still exposed to a number of threats
related to landscape modifications. We used data from camera traps and
occupancy models to investigate the habitat use by carnivores in an area
of Caatinga in northeastern Brazil. We found a negative correlation
between the presence of wind farms and the occupancy probability of the
jaguar, and a positive relationship with the presence of the jaguarundi.
Puma and jaguarundi occupied primarily sites near watercourses, whereas
the occupancy of the crab-eating fox was correlated positively with the
presence of poachers. The ocelot was detected more frequently at sites
distant from human settlements, whereas the jaguar was detected more often
in areas far from wind farms. We found a negative correlation between the
distance of water and the detection of the ocelot. The detection of the
crab-eating fox was influenced positively by the detection of cattle. In
addition to the negative influence of some anthropic activities, our
results indicate that water is a very important resource for species, and
the few permanent sources of this resource available in the area must be
preserved. The replication of our research in other systems, worldwide,
that are experiencing similar pressures, should permit a systematic
evaluation of the management and conservation strategies needed to rebuild
or maintain populations, restore ecosystems, and support conservation
policies in human-altered landscapes.