WILD FAUNA: CONSERVATION PERSPECTIVES IN AN INSTITUTIONAL ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

Biodiversity conservation in the Caatinga biome is an urgent challenge, given its unique biological richness and a history of gaps in scientific studies. In this context, institutional environments such as educational campuses emerge as strategic ecological refuges, allowing not only the protection of native species in areas under urban pressure but also the integration of scientific research and environmental education. Thus, this research aimed to record and identify the wild fauna at IFRN – Pau dos Ferros Campus/RN, using direct observation and photographic records to foster institutional scientific knowledge. The survey took place between November and December 2025, through systematic monitoring and fixed observation points during periods of peak animal activity. Taxonomic analysis was based on specialized literature and citizen science platforms (WikiAves and iNaturalist). A diversity of birds, mammals, and reptiles was identified, with a predominance of avifauna due to their synanthropic adaptation. Notable records include the Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium brasilianum), Guira Cuckoo (Guira guira), Red-crested Cardinal (Paroaria coronata), Greater Thornbird (Pseudoseisura cristata), Black-crowned Tityra (Tityra cayana), and Chalk-browed Mockingbird (Mimus saturninus). Among mammals, the Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) stood out, and among reptiles, the Black-and-white Tegu (Salvator merianae). It is concluded that the campus's wooded areas are critical for the shelter, feeding, and reproduction of local fauna. Seasonal monitoring, the implementation of ecological landscaping with native species, and the use of camera traps for difficult-to-detect groups are recommended.