From Digital Camera World · · 1m 30s
Rare Andean Cat Sighted in Argentina for Third Year
Andean Mountain Cat photographed in Argentina for third consecutive year highlights camera traps' conservation value.
In brief
Andean Mountain Cat photographed in Argentina for third consecutive year highlights camera traps' conservation value. WCS Argentina confirmed the Andean cat's presence in Argentina for the third year using camera traps, showing conservation efforts work despite population uncertainty. Originally reported by Digital…
Rare Andean Cat Sighted
An elusive Andean Mountain Cat (Leopardus jacobita) has been sighted by conservationists in Argentina for only the third time in as many consecutive years.
Camera Traps Key to Conservation
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Argentina commented on the clear role trail cameras play in helping conserve the most endangered cat species across the Andes.
Species Status and Numbers
Andean cats grow to roughly the size of a large house cat with thick ash-gray fur marked by brownish-orange spots and stripes, and there are around 2,100 mature individuals across South America.
Recent Sighting Location
The latest sighting was recorded in January 2026 in the La Payunia Protected Natural Area of Mendoza Province, part of a broader WCS investigation over the past two decades.
Conservation Manager's View
Dr María José Bolgeri, regenerative management manager at WCS Argentina, stated every discovery confirms the cat's presence and that conservation efforts are yielding concrete results.
Population Uncertainty
None of the sightings over the past three years establish whether the local Andean cat population is increasing or decreasing, highlighting the need for continued camera trap monitoring.
At a glance
WCS Argentina confirmed the Andean cat's presence in Argentina for the third year using camera traps, showing conservation efforts work despite population uncertainty.
