Short-eared dog

Short-eared dog [NT]

Atelocynus microtis [Scientific name]
Cachorro-do-mato-de-orelhas-curtas [Portuguese]
Sacha alcu [Quechua]
Cuachi yaguar [Guarayu]

The short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis) is a medium-sized canid found rarely across the Amazon Basin, often considered elusive even by indigenous populations. They have been recorded in a wide variety of habitats, including terra firma forest, swamp forest, bamboo stands, and primary succession along rivers. Compared to other canids, this species is well-adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle, with webbed paws that allow them to have a diverse diet with a high proportion of fish and crabs. No comprehensive ecological and genetic research has been conducted on the species, indicating significant room for future research and conservation efforts.

9.5 (9–10) kg • 86.0 (72.0–100.0) cm head+body length

POPULATION TREND

DECREASING

HABITAT & ECOLOGY

Forest • Inland Wetlands • Savanna