Small Eared Zorro (Dog)

The short-eared dog, also known as the short-eared zorro or small-eared dog, is a fascinating canid species native to the Amazonian basin. It is the sole member of the genus Atelocynus and has various names in local languages. This distinctive animal has adeptly adapted to life in tropical rainforests, making it quite different from other fox-like or wolf-like canids.

There are two recognized subspecies of the short-eared dog: A. m. microtis and A. m. sclateri. These dogs prefer the undisturbed areas of the Amazon rainforest, far from human activities. They have short, slender limbs, rounded ears, a fox-like muzzle, and a bushy tail. Their diet is quite diverse but primarily carnivorous, including fish, insects, and small mammals.

One intriguing aspect of the short-eared dog is that females are generally larger than males. They lead solitary lives and tend to avoid human contact. Unfortunately, their existence is threatened by diseases spread by feral dogs and habitat destruction resulting from human activities. Due to these threats, the short-eared dog is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN.

To ensure the survival of this unique species, further research is needed to better understand their habits and needs. Only with such knowledge can effective conservation efforts be implemented.