Andean Cat Found At Lower Elevations

Photo copyright M.Lucherini, GECM Argentina

Once thought to exclusively inhabit its namesake mountain range, the threatened Andean cat-a house cat-sized feline that resembles a small snow leopard in both appearance and habitat-also frequents the Patagonian steppe at much lower elevations, according to a new study published by the Wildlife Conservation Society and partners.

“These confirmed records show the lowest elevations ever reported for the Andean cat,” said WCS conservationist Andres Novaro, lead author of the study. “According to genetic studies underway led by Daniel Cossios, this new population appears to represent an evolutionary lineage distinct from the highland population.”

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