The Andean cat is one of the most endangered felines in the world, it is estimated that there are no more than 1500 individuals in its entire distribution range and one of the most significant causes of death is hunting in retaliation to prevent livestock predation.
This small feline is found in the Andes of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru, and in the northern region of Argentine Patagonia.
It is considered one of the most threatened felines in the Americas and is among the five most endangered felines in the world. It shares its habitat with the Andean mountain cat, another feline of similar size, but with a wider distribution, which is easily confused with.
What is the Andean cat like?
Its fur is predominantly ash gray with reddish-yellowish-brown spots that are arranged vertically on both sides of the body giving the appearance of continuous stripes. It is characterized by having a very long tail (66 to 75% of the length of the head and body), thick, cylindrical, fluffy-looking, with 6 to 9 wide rings in dark brown to black. Its legs also have thin bands or dark spots that do not form complete rings. It can weigh up to 6 kilograms.
Where does it inhabit?
The main characteristics of the environment where the Andean cat inhabits are aridity, extreme temperatures, sparse vegetation, and a landscape where rocky patches that emerge in the landscape are especially relevant, as they provide refuge to a great diversity of animals.
Since these rocky patches are not continuous, the habitat of the Andean cat and its prey is naturally fragmented and combined with arid conditions, it presents high fragility, so minor environmental modifications can have a great impact on the species that inhabit this landscape.
The presence of the Andean cat is associated with certain terrain features such as proximity to water sources and the presence of rocky patches that can shelter its prey, among which is the mountain viscacha or mountain chinchilla, which provides the most food to its diet.
“Andean Cat Alliance” works on its conservation
The Andean Cat Alliance (AGA) is a multinational and interdisciplinary network made up of members from the four countries where the species inhabits: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. Our work is focused in the high Andes of these four countries and in the northern Patagonian steppe of Argentina, working together with governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as local communities.
Photographic exhibition
Throughout the exhibition at @culturartejujuy, you will be able to participate in unique encounters with professionals passionate about conservation, culture, and biodiversity of the Andes.
🎤 The open talks to the public will address fascinating topics about the habitat of the Andean cat, other species that share its environment, and cultural knowledge linked to these highland landscapes.
👥 There will also be special closed spaces for the educational sector, organized by the Secretariat of Biodiversity and Sustainable Development of @ambientejujuy together with @alianza_gato_andino.
📅 We will soon share with you the details of each encounter! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the feline soul of the Andes and everything around it 🌄💚
📍Culturarte – San Martín esquina Sarmiento
🗓️ From April 11 to May 14, 2025
