Pampas fox
Amazonian Canids Working Group
The Amazonian Canid Working Group (ACWG) is an IUCN SSC Canid Specialist Group working group focused on four Amazonian canids: the short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis), crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous), bush dog (Speothos venaticus), and South American foxes (Lycalopex spp.), including the pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) and hoary fox (Lycalopex vetulus). These species are understudied relative to other regional carnivores, particularly the Lycalopex group. ACWG connects researchers, managers, educators, and other experts working with these canids across the Amazon basin to coordinate research, share information, and advance conservation.
Coordinators: Karen DeMatteo, Fernanda Michalski
Objectives
Build an online network of researchers, managers, educators, and other experts across the Amazon region to coordinate conservation action for these four canids.
Identify species-specific research questions, develop research projects, and set shared conservation goals for each working group species.
Connect priority research and conservation initiatives with students, graduate programs, and funding agencies able to support them.
Support regional education initiatives that raise public awareness of Amazonian canids, their ecological importance, and the threats they face.
Maintain a dedicated website and literature resources that share information, coordinate activities, and sustain engagement across the region.