The Andean cat (Oreailurus jacobita) is one of the least known felines in the world and is the most threatened felid species in the Americas.

The available information suggests that this species has unique features and is genetically distinct from other small felid species, because it is very specialized to rocky habitats at elevations above 3500 m in the Andes of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.

Until now, the size of the species’ populations has not been possible to establish but we consider that its distribution is naturally fragmented and presume that populations are found at low densities.

The main problems for conservation of the Andean cat are related to:

• habitat fragmentation and habitat disturbance/loss,
• hunting of the species for several purposes
• inter-specific competition and,
• decline of prey populations

Lack of information on the species, absence of specific conservation policies and lack of law enforcement are common limiting factors in range countries, which hinder the development of adequate conservation programs.

Accordingly, we established three main areas under which we developed the action plan:

• Carry out research on the biology and ecology of the Andean cat
• Develop educational programs, to obtain the support and active involvement of local communities in conservation projects
• Support in conservation-oriented management at the local and regional levels, particularly with protected areas

Within these three general areas, we identified six objectives and actions to achieve those objectives:

• To determine the current distribution and relative abundance of Andean cat populations, and the threats that affect the species and natural ecosystems.

• To carry out research to produce basic information on Andean cat biology and ecology.

• To mitigate impacts of human activities on the Andean cat and natural ecosystems through community participation and education.

• To strengthen the management of protected areas where the Andean cat is present, promote the establishment of new areas or corridors, and encourage the development of conservation initiatives in the region.

• To promote the implementation and adequacy of conservation legislation and policies regarding the Andean cat and natural ecosystems
  
  
• To continuously evaluate the actions developed during the implementation of this plan.

For more information:
The Andean cat: A Conservation Action Plan