Andean Mountain Cat

Endangered

Estimated remaining: ~1,400

Habitat

High altitude rocky slopes and alpine grasslands of the Andes Mountains, above 3,000 meters elevation, in one of the most extreme habitats for felids.

Threats

• Habitat degradation from mining
• Hunting for cultural ceremonies
• Prey depletion (mountain viscachas)
• Climate change affecting alpine ecosystems
• Limited genetic diversity

Conservation efforts

Protected in Andean national parks. Research using camera traps at high altitude. Community-based conservation with indigenous peoples. International conservation alliance. Habitat protection initiatives.