Mapping the Mountain Caracara (Phalcoboenus megalopterus)/White-Throated Caracara (P. albogularis) Contact Zone and Possible Hybrid Zone in Northern Patagonia

Abstract

Our analyses support two main evolutionary units for this species, that should be separately managedfrom a conservation perspective. The Striated Caracara occur in a series of naturally fragmented populations, many of which could harbor unique variants on a relatively small spatial scale. From a precautionary perspective, it appears relevant to conserve the degree of isolation of each island in particular with a similar degree of priority regardless local (i.e., current) abundances. Further work should focus on better understanding the interaction between dispersal abilities, trophic resources and landscape dynamics along with increasing sampling effort in this scarce and still unknown raptor.