Researchers in Metropolitan Region of Chile record first sighting of puma and return of pampas cat

Researchers have documented the presence of a puma (Puma concolor) for the first time in the Quebrada de la Plata nature reserve, located in the municipality of Maipo, 30 km from the Chilean capital Santiago, and have also recorded the return of the pampas cat (Leopardus colocolo), which had not been sighted in the area for more than six years, reports El Maipo, a partner of TV BRICS.

The puma, a large predator, requires large, interconnected territories in which to roam. Its appearance in the reserve is particularly significant, as it indicates the recovery of the ecosystem.

The pampas cat is a species that is very difficult to spot due to its secretive lifestyle.

The rare images were captured using camera traps set up by the Centre for Environmental Management and Biodiversity (CGAB) at the Faculty of Veterinary and Zootechnical Sciences, University of Chile. The monitoring is part of a programme to study the region’s wildlife.

Pabla Sanchez Fuentes, coordinator of the nature reserve, noted that the results reflect the success of many years of efforts to restore the ecosystem, monitor and protect the area.

Despite the positive results, environmentalists point out that urban expansion and infrastructure projects could disrupt ecosystem connectivity and threaten species with large ranges.

The Quebrada de la Plata, covering an area of over 1,000 hectares, is home to at least 87 species of vertebrates, 19 of which are endemic to Chile. Since 2016, the area has held the status of a nature reserve due to its ecological, scientific and natural value.