Witnessing the Colonization of a Biodiversity Stronghold by Coyotes Using Local People’s Knowledge

Research reveals that coyote colonization in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, a critical biodiversity hotspot, has accelerated significantly over the past decade. Using local ecological knowledge (LEK) from 272 and 461 participants across 30 communities, the study mapped spatio-temporal patterns of coyote expansion, showing nonlinear range growth. Notably, 88% of respondents reported coyote-related knowledge, with 38% acquiring it outside Calakmul through migration, underscoring LEK's dynamic and translocal nature. The findings highlight parallel yet asynchronous progression of colonization and knowledge development, emphasizing the need for early detection to manage coyote-ecosystem interactions. Conservation efforts should prioritize community-based monitoring strategies in collaboration with local communities.

Serrano-Mac-Gregor, I., Calmé, S., Schmook, B., Molina-Rosales, D., Sponarski, C. C., & Abreu-Montero, J. A. (2026). Witnessing the Colonization of a Biodiversity Stronghold by Coyotes Using Local People’s Knowledge. Tropical Conservation Science, 19. https://doi.org/10.1177/19400829261476968