Recently, it was confirmed that a specimen of the “pampas cat” (Leopardus garleppi) was sighted for the first time in Ecuador. This is a feline species from Latin America rarely detected.
However, unfortunately, this was confirmed through a forensic study, as the animal was found run over.
The discovery of the pampas cat
An investigation by the National Biodiversity Institute of Ecuador (Inabio) confirmed the first sighting of the pampas cat in the country.
It was on the coast of El Oro province. The sad news is that it was found lifeless in the Arenillas Ecological Reserve.
The subsequent forensic study confirmed that it had been feeding on local wildlife, including birds and rodents, leading experts to believe that it is living in the area and is a good climber.
The species is not yet classified by the IUCN due to insufficient data. However, there are discussions about habitat loss, accidental poisonings, in addition to deforestation, illegal hunting, and run-overs as causes of the species’ decline.
What the animal is like
Overall, there are still many unknowns about the behavior and lifestyle of these small felines from Latin America. Primarily because less than four years ago it was recognized as a species by science.
Previously, it was believed to be a subspecies of Leopardus colocolo. However, expert researchers reclassified it. They analyzed its physical characteristics, such as leg and tail coloration, body proportions, and skull, conducted DNA tests, and compared specimens from museums in several countries.
They also collected testimonies from residents near the animals’ habitats and images captured with trap cameras placed in nature.
They concluded that there were at least five different species, and one of them is Leopardus garleppi, commonly known as pampas cat, desert cat, or grassland cat.
Where it lives
It is native to the central-western mountainous region. Thus, it would be distributed in the south of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
It is a small feline that could resemble a domestic cat, with markings similar to ocelots, but which can become completely diffuse and lack a defined pattern.
It has been described as a very adaptable species to different habitats, being found in snowy areas as well as in desert landscapes or dry forests; or even at 5000 meters above sea level.
It is a predator that feeds on birds, small mammals such as rodents, and even some reptiles like lizards. Therefore, it is considered a biological controller that prevents the spread of pests.
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