Mammals from Los Mármoles National Park, one of the first protected areas in Mexico

Abstract

Los Mármoles National Park (state of Hidalgo) is one of the oldest protected natural areas in Mexico. Due to its geographical location, it contains both Nearctic and Neotropical species, although the mammal species inhabiting the area have been poorly studied. This information is required to establish conservation actions in the area, which is heavily affected by mining and illegal logging. We sampled mammals across nine non-consecutive years (2013-2018, 2021-2022, and 2025) and searched records in literature to produce the first updated checklist for Los Mármoles. We conducted 62 field trips of varying lengths (1 to 12 days). We used pitfall and Sherman traps, mist nets, camera traps, and scent stations to trap mammals. In addition, we conducted interviews with local people and obtained incidental records (e.g., observations, dead animals, tracks, excrement). We recorded 85 native mammal species, including 10 protected species and 15 endemic species to Mexico. Chiroptera, Carnivora, and Rodentia were the most well-represented groups with the highest number of species in this study, highlighting the presence of large carnivores, such as Ursus americanus and Panthera onca. We documented domestic and feral animals within the protected area. Although Los Mármoles is home to more than 50% of the state’s mammal species, it faces serious threats, such as mining, feral dogs, and livestock.