We work with Andean communities, whose main source of income is the extraction of gold using traditional techniques, to develop and implement actions for the conservation of the Andean cat and its environment. The traditional techniques used for gold extraction are not regulated and can be very dangerous, directly impacting wildlife by polluting water and soil, and also putting the health of the miners and their families at risk. This work is being developed in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society – Bolivia and other institutions. With this program, we aim to make the protection of biodiversity as a requirement to obtain green gold, or Fairmined gold certificates. These internationally valid certifications provide an excellent opportunity for the economic development... Read More

This program has two focuses: camera trapping and the collection of material for genetic analysis. Our aim is to fill information gaps in the global distribution map of the Andean cat, and to evaluate the potential impact of diseases and parasites transmitted by domestic animals on Andean cat populations. Camera trapping is a powerful, non-invasive tool for recording behavior and vital information about elusive species such as the Andean cat, and it also provides material to raise awareness of the threats that affect them. We also search for scat during camera trap fieldwork. This is a very arduous task, as scat is very difficult to find and the proportion of Andean cat samples in relation to those of other species... Read More

The CATcrafts Program aims to preserve the habitat of the Andean cat through the development of sustainable economic alternatives for the local communities. We work together with women artisans to identify traditional techniques and raw materials that are revalued and put into perspective for global trade. The women artisans are trained in different techniques, including the elaboration of products of standardized quality and the identification of sale channels through fair trade. This program empowers women and generates alternative income for their families, all while protecting and celebrating the cultural identity of those who live with the Andean cat. This revolutionary solution has created an economic value for the Andean cat and its cultural significance and transformed the artisans into ambassadors... Read More

The Conflict Mitigation Program aims to eliminate the hunting of Andean cats. To do this, we implement strategies to reduce conflict between herders and native carnivores. Most of these conflicts originate from culpeo foxes and pumas preying on cattle, which generate retaliatory hunting when herders hunt all species of carnivores, including the Andean cat.  We are working with local herders to develop conflict mitigation strategies that protect their livestock without harming native wildlife. Some of the most successful strategies are the implementation of livestock guard dogs, the installation of deterrent lights, and the improvement of existing livestock corrals. Due to the unique climate in the areas where the Andean cat lives, both daily and seasonal, it is necessary to adapt... Read More

The Modular Education Program is an innovative strategy to increase the knowledge and raise awareness about the relevance of the Andean cat and its environment, valuing natural resources and their relationship with communities. The material and activities are adaptable to different audiences, from elementary school students to technical staff from governmental agencies. This allows us to be versatile when delivering the conservation message, using the Andean cat as our flagship species.