Environmental challenges influencing maternal care and nesting success in the Broad-snouted Caiman

Abstract

Maternal care and nesting success are critical components of the reproductive cycle in crocodilians, and are strongly influenced by environmental conditions. We studied the effects ofenvironmental factors on maternal care and nesting success in the Broad-snouted Caiman (Caiman latirostris), and we described the behavioral patterns of females. Using camera traps, we monitored 64 nests in forest, savanna, and marsh habitats across different levels of anthropogenic disturbance in Santa Fe, Argentina, over four nesting seasons (2018–2022). Regarding maternal care behavior, we identified nest defense, hatching assistance, and protecting unhatched eggs, in addition to the same patterns previously observed in captivity (nest construction, egg-laying, nest maintenance, and guarding the nest). Maternal care was more frequently observed in marsh nests. However, maternal care did not significantly vary in response to anthropogenic disturbances, nor across nesting seasons. Overall, 38 % (24 out of 64) of the nests were successful, and success was positively associated with maternal care. Most unsuccessful nests occurred in savanna areas, where nests were often affected by flooding and predation by feral pigs (Sus scrofa). These findings contribute to a better understanding of the reproductive strategies of the Broad-snouted Caiman and highlight the need for further research on the costs and benefits of maternal care.