Actualistic taphonomic study of the rodents digested by the Achala culpeo fox ( <i>Lycalopex</i> <i>culpaeus</i> <i>smithersi</i> ) in the highlands of central Argentina

We present the first actualistic study of rodents consumed by South American fox Lycalopex culpaeus smithersi (Achala culpeo fox), a subspecies that is endemic to highlands central Argentina. provide taphonomic characterization this canid based on digested micromammal bones, and compare it other carnivores. studied over 1000 bones derived from 83 scats collected in Quebrada del Condorito National Park, Córdoba province, Argentina, corresponding caviomorph myomorph rodents. Galea leucoblephara was main prey (59.8% MNI, 93.1% biomass). Average relative abundance for total assemblage 26.7. Cranial and, lesser extent, proximal limb were most abundant elements. A high degree breakage observed cranial elements bones. proportion heavy extreme digestion inferred, while some bear light or no traces at all. Overall, Achala fits best with mammalian carnivores category modification, shows types proportions attributes similar predators. These results contribute understanding regional processes digestive modifications foxes generally, are thus relevant interpreting presence remains archaeological palaeontological records impact these upon their formation.