New records of folivory and diurnal activity of Coendou rufescens (Rodentia, Erethizontidae) in the Andean region of Colombia

Abstract

Observations on the natural history of neotropical porcupines ( Coendou ) remain scarce. For the Stump-tailed porcupine, Coendou rufescens , diurnal activity and dietary items have been documented in the northern Central Andes of Colombia. Here we report new observations of folivory and diurnal activity of C. rufescens in the Colombian Massif, southwestern Colombia, contributing to the understanding of its natural history. Daytime sightings and dog–porcupine interactions add information to the species’ diurnal activity. These findings reinforce previous reports from Colombia and suggest that C. rufescens may not be strictly nocturnal, unlike many congeners. Interactions with domestic dogs also raise conservation concerns.