The jaguar, the largest feline in America, is facing a critical situation in Argentina. With less than 250 individuals throughout the country, with about 90 of them concentrated in the province of Misiones, it is necessary to protect them.
To address this issue, Misiones has implemented the world’s first insurance policy designed to protect the species and the rural communities it coexists with.
“The initiative arises from a provincial law that protects big felines and establishes a conservation program, as well as authorizing the Ministry of Agriculture and Production to compensate producers for livestock depredation,” explained Guido Solowinski, coexistence manager at the ministry, to DW portal.
How does the depredation insurance work?
The goal is to stop retaliatory hunting, which occurs when the jaguar preys on livestock and producers act in revenge.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Argentina, in partnership with Rio Uruguay Seguros (RUS), Aves Argentinas, and the government of Misiones, structured this private insurance, the first of its kind in the world for this species.
“The insurance quickly compensates the affected producer, reducing the risk of retaliatory hunting,” stated Belén Gómez, from the presidency of RUS.
Additionally, technical support is provided with regular visits to prevent future attacks.
A pilot project with national impact
The insurance is funded by the provincial government and initially implemented in Comandante Andresito. This is an area surrounded by parks and reserves, where there is a higher population of jaguars.
“Most producers are small farmers, so it’s a challenge to design policies that balance production and biodiversity,” highlighted Solowinski, recalling that Misiones hosts 52% of the country’s biodiversity.
This pilot project will be evaluated for a year, analyzing attack reports and community perceptions.
Expansion of insurance to other regions
The model has been approved by the National Insurance Superintendence, opening the door to its implementation in other areas inhabited by the jaguar, such as Chaco and the Yungas.
Furthermore, specialists believe it could be applied to other species, such as the puma, which also impacts productive sectors.
“We were the ones who invaded their habitat, so we have the obligation to protect them and ensure their conservation,” emphasized Mirta Kachan, director of Tourism and Environment in Comandante Andresito.
A long-term coexistence model
While insurance is a key step, experts insist that conservation requires an integral strategy, combining:
- Culturalization and environmental education.
- Better livestock management practices.
- Biodiversity protection plans.
This innovative program marks a milestone in jaguar conservation, offering a viable alternative to ensuring coexistence between humans and big felines in Argentina.
