Publications
Species richness and endemicity of carnivorans in protected areas of the Yucatan Peninsula
Only 9.48% of critical habitats for carnivoran species richness and endemicity in the Yucatán Peninsula are currently protected, despite these areas being vital for conservation. The study identified that southern Quintana Roo, southeastern Campeche, the Tabasco-Chiapas border, and northern Belize-Guatemala exhibit peak species richness, while Cozumel Island and south-central Tabasco show high endemicity. Using ecological niche modeling and diversity range analysis, researchers mapped these patterns to assess representation within existing protected areas (PAs). Key PAs partially covering priority zones include Sierra del Lacandón, Laguna del Tigre, Tikal, Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Parks in Guatemala; Rio Bravo Conservation Area in Belize; and Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. The findings emphasize the urgent need to expand PA coverage to safeguard the region's unique carnivoran assemblages and their ecosystem functions.
New queen? Evidence of a long-living Jaguar Panthera onca (Mammalia: Carnivora: Felidae) in Tikal National Park, Guatemala
Researchers have identified evidence suggesting the presence of a long-living jaguar (Panthera onca) within Tikal National Park, Guatemala. This individual, likely a female, was recorded during a 2018 camera trapping study and traced back to 2009, indicating potential long-term residency in one of the largest conserved forests in the Neotropics, the Selva Maya. The findings highlight the need for systematic, long-term studies to evaluate jaguar populations and assess the effectiveness of protected areas in ensuring species conservation. This discovery contributes to the limited understanding of jaguar longevity and residency patterns in wild environments.
Inscripciones jeroglíficas mayas misceláneas sobre cerámica del Clásico Temprano en el Parque Nacional Tikal, Guatemala
A previously overlooked fragment of Maya hieroglyphic text from Tikal National Park, Guatemala, reveals the earliest known mention of the enigmatic title 'tumam' and provides insights into an unknown royal lineage from the Petén region during the Early Classic period. This discovery stems from a 2013 project focused on re-documenting ceramic collections at the Tikal Conservation and Research Center (CCIT). The research, part of the 'Epigraphic Atlas of Peten, Phase I,' aimed to analyze lesser-studied hieroglyphic texts preserved in the park. By systematically re-examining ceramic fragments, the study uncovered significant epigraphic evidence that contributes to our understanding of Maya dynastic accounts and titles during this crucial period.
Nature Tourism and Its Development in Guatemala: Assessing Current Trends and Future Potential
A study on nature tourism at Tikal National Park, Guatemala, reveals that most tourists—primarily well-educated Americans around 30 years old with low incomes—are willing to pay approximately $20 for park entrance. The research found no significant increase in willingness-to-pay when tourists were informed that a portion of revenue would support park management, though many expressed interest in multi-day passes. This insight suggests that economic incentives tied to conservation may not always drive higher tourist contributions but highlights the potential for sustainable tourism models in developing countries.
Records of Orange-breasted Falcons in Urban and Suburban Areas of Northwestern Argentina
A rare nesting behavior of the Orange-breasted Falcon (Falco deiroleucus) has been documented in urban and suburban areas of northwestern Argentina, expanding its known habitat beyond mature forests. This study reports on falcon sightings and behaviors in modified landscapes, including cultivated fields, orchards, and pastures, challenging the notion that this species is strictly confined to forested regions. The research utilized field observations and records to capture foraging patterns and nesting attempts in non-forest environments, providing new insights into the adaptability of this falcon species. Notably, while breeding territories remain predominantly in mature forests, individuals have been observed utilizing fragmented habitats, suggesting a greater resilience to human-altered landscapes than previously recognized.
Modelling the ancient maize agriculture potential of landforms in Tikal National Park, Guatemala
A predictive model of ancient maize agriculture in Tikal National Park reveals that bajo margins were likely used for sustained farming, while upland Rendolls soils showed long-term C3 vegetation signatures, suggesting diverse food production systems. The study combined non-parametric regression, stable carbon isotopes, soil properties, and remote-sensing data to identify areas with strong C4 isotopic enrichment indicative of maize cultivation. Upland regions lacked clear C4 signals, implying alternative land-use practices such as silviculture or forest gardens. This approach provides a cost-effective method for reconstructing subsistence strategies in ancient polities.
Researching Raptors among the Ruins
A groundbreaking 9-year study at Tikal National Park, Guatemala, documented the ecology and spatial needs of 20 species of Neotropical raptors, including two owls, revealing unprecedented insights into their morphology, diet, hunting behavior, habitat use, breeding patterns, vocalizations, population density, and conservation status. The research, conducted by The Peregrine Fund's Maya Project, employed innovative field techniques such as observation points atop ruins and emergent trees, taped call broadcasts, nest traps, and radio tracking to overcome the challenges posed by the dense, humid rainforest environment. Notably, the project located 70 nests of the barred forest falcon (Micrastur), a species whose nests and eggs had never been previously described, despite its commonality in Tikal's forests. The study also highlighted the unique prey specialization and hunting adaptations of Neotropical raptors, contrasting them with temperate-climate counterparts. With tropical deforestation rates exceeding 3% annually in Guatemala, this comprehensive data set is invaluable for conservation efforts, ensuring the preservation of these elusive birds of prey.
Invisible Artifacts: Uncovering Secrets of Ancient Maya Agriculture with Modern Soil Science
Research at Tikal National Park reveals that ancient Maya agriculture was more complex and extensive than previously thought, with evidence suggesting they relied on both local farming and trade. Soil analysis identified phosphorus traces in plaza floors, indicating marketplace activities, while C4 plant residue analysis showed maize cultivation in lowland soils, contrasting with upland erosion patterns. This interdisciplinary approach combining archaeology and soil science challenges the narrative of Maya collapse, highlighting both unsustainable practices leading to soil degradation and innovative conservation techniques like agricultural terraces.
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