Examining the distribution patterns and spatiotemporal niche overlap of sympatric species is crucial for understanding core concepts in community ecology and for the effective management of multi-species habitats within shared landscapes. Using data from 26 camera-traps, recorded over two years (December 2020–November 2022), in Sidi Toui National Park (STNP), Tunisia, we investigate habitat use and activity patterns of the scimitar-horned oryx (n = 1865 captures) and dorcas gazelle (n = 1208 captures). Using information theory and multi-model inference methods, along with the Pianka index, we evaluated the habitat characteristics influencing species distribution and their spatial niche overlap. To delineate daily activity patterns, we applied kernel density estimation. Our findings indicate minimal spatial overlap and distinct environmental factors determining suitable habitats for each species. Furthermore, we found significant temporal niche overlaps, indicative of synchrony in daily activity patterns, with both species showing peak activity at dawn and dusk. Our results indicated that oryx and gazelle differ in at least one dimension of their ecological niche at the current density levels, which contributes to their long-term and stable coexistence in STNP.

Rüppell’s fox, Vulpes rueppellii, is one of the four fox species occurring in North Africa. Its population status and ecology remains largely unknown. Here, we collected occurrence data from camera trapping and scat-collection based mitochondrial control region sequencing to assess the distribution range and status of the species across potential habitats in Tunisia. The collection and analysis of 342 scat samples resulted in 234 sequences of the mitochondrial control region. Our results did not reveal any evidence of Rüppell’s fox presence in Tunisia. In contrast, three other mesocarnivores were commonly recorded by camera trapping and molecular data, namely African wolf ‘Canis lupaster’, red fox ‘Vulpes vulpes’ and fennec fox ‘V. zerda’. The three species exhibited distinct geographical affinities, which are reflected in different habitat selection patterns. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study focusing on the distribution of V. rueppellii in North Africa using both camera trapping and noninvasive genetic methods. In terms of conservation, it seems urgent to characterise the status of this species in North Africa, and particularly in Tunisia.