"Integrated Bioacoustic and Morphological Evidence of an Unidentified Large Carnivore in the Pskem River Basin (Western Tian Shan, Uzbekistan, April 2026)"

This dataset presents integrated field evidence of an unidentified large terrestrial carnivore documented in the Pskem River Basin (Western Tian Shan, Uzbekistan) on April 14, 2026. The material combines bioacoustic recordings, morphological observations, and locomotion measurements collected under natural conditions within an active riparian corridor. Bioacoustic Data The dataset includes a high-quality audio recording obtained at 12:36 local time using a Samsung S24 Ultra device. The vocalization sequence consists of 64 discrete signals over a duration of approximately 180 seconds. – Mean inter-onset interval (IOI): ~2.8 seconds – Temporal structure: highly rhythmic and consistent – Acoustic profile: low-frequency dominant signal, clearly distinguishable from riverine background noise Comparative analysis with prior recordings from the Oqtosh–Soyliq dataset (August 2025) reveals a near-identical temporal pattern (~2.7–2.8 s interval), suggesting a stable and repeatable vocalization structure. Morphological Evidence (Scat Analysis) Carnivore scat samples were documented within a 500–700 meter radius of previously recorded large track sites. Observed characteristics: – Segmented structure – High density of ungulate hair – Presence of fragmented bone material – Partial calcification (whitish coloration), indicating environmental exposure and bone-rich diet These features are consistent with obligate carnivory and align with known patterns of large apex predators. Locomotion and Track Data Field measurements indicate a stride length of approximately 130 cm along the riverbank substrate. – Substrate: semi-firm alluvial sediment – Associated track size (previously documented): ~12.5–13 cm Biomechanical interpretation suggests a large-bodied terrestrial carnivore with significant mass and efficient locomotion across riparian terrain. Ecological Context All observations were recorded within a riverine (riparian) corridor, indicating repeated use of this environment as a movement and potential territorial zone. The persistence of vocal activity during daytime hours, including continued signal emission in the presence of anthropogenic disturbance (vehicle), suggests low avoidance behavior and possible territorial response. Scientific Interpretation The combined dataset provides convergent but non-definitive evidence of a high-trophic-level predator. Key indicators include: – Structured and repeatable vocalization pattern – Morphological consistency with obligate carnivory – Large stride length indicating significant body size At the current stage, the most appropriate classification is: “Unidentified large terrestrial carnivore (with possible Felidae affinity)” No definitive taxonomic identification is made. All data are presented to support independent verification and further multidisciplinary investigation, including camera trapping, genetic sampling, and advanced spectrographic analysis. Related Work This dataset complements previously published materials documenting nocturnal and crepuscular vocalizations (August 2025) and supports the broader hypothesis of a cryptic large predator presence in the Western Tian Shan region.