Contributions on the diet of free-ranging dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) in the Nevado de Toluca Flora and Fauna Protection Area, Estado de México, Mexico

Dogs ( Canis lupus familiaris ) are an invasive alien species that can negatively impact natural ecosystems due to the potential of predation, competition, or disease transmission. Nonetheless, few studies assess ecological impacts these on protected areas. Our objective was determine diet free-ranging dogs, through scat analysis within Nevado de Toluca Flora and Fauna Protection Area, Estado México, Mexico. A total 130 samples from dogs were collected with help a bloodhound. Prey items identified in scats classified into 6 food categories: wild mammals, birds, insects, livestock, vegetative matter human-derived food. Wild mammals most frequent category (FO = 62.3%; RO 40.3%). We present first evidence 8 rodents, 1 shrew, 2 skunk as part dogs. Some preys endemic Mexico special protection status according Mexican law. recommend following global-level policies aimed at reducing population Protected Areas.