Spatial modelling and estimation of mammals' mortalities by Pantanal 2020 megafires

The Pantanal 2020 megafires caused significant mortality among medium- and large-sized mammals, with approximately 49,000 individuals from 26 species affected. The study used double-observer carcass surveys and multi-species N-mixture models to assess spatial patterns of mortality, revealing that non-flooded forests and artificial water bodies were hotspots for fire-related deaths. Mortality was also linked to wildfire severity and species traits related to escape or refuge strategies. Capuchin monkeys, agoutis, peccaries, tapirs, brocket deer, tamanduas, coatis, and capybaras were among the most impacted species. The findings highlight critical areas for fire prevention, species prioritization for rescue efforts, and targeted monitoring to mitigate future impacts on wildlife.

Brack, I. V., Cordeiro, J. L. P., Kindel, A., Rangel, B. Z., Crawshaw, D., Heiermann, D., Berto, D. O., Sicuro, F. L., de Oliveira, G. S., Servi Gonçalves, G., Franceschi, I. C., Lermen, I. S., de Oliveira, M. B., Thomas, P. A., de Oliveira, R. A. A., Conceição, T. F., & de Oliveira, L. F. B. (2024). Spatial modelling and estimation of mammals’ mortalities by Pantanal 2020 megafires. Journal of Applied Ecology, 61(11), 2848–2859. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.14789