First record of Leopardus geoffroyi (Carnivora: Felidae) in the San Pedro mountain range of Cochabamba, Bolivia.

Abstract

The Geoffroy's Cat (Leopardus geoffroyi) is a small South American feline that inhabits several countries, including Bolivia. Although classified as Least Concern (LC)  by the IUCN, in Bolivia it is considered Near Threatened, mainly due to illegal trade of its fur, habitat loss and human-wildlife conflicts. Here we present the first distribution record for the species in the dry inter-Andean valleys of Cochabamba, more specifically in the San Pedro mountain range, a green area within the metropolitan area of the city of Cochabamba. This area is under enormous anthropic pressure, but still has well-preserved native vegetation. This record was obtained through camera traps as part of a survey project of medium and small terrestrial mammals. In addition, some direct threats to the species were evidenced, such as the presence of domestic cats, dogs, sheep and goats. Despite the high anthropogenic pressure and the proximity to tourist areas, the area has potential for the conservation of the Geoffroy’s Cat and other wildlife species. These records highlight the importance of protecting fragments of native vegetation and the need to expand conservation actions in this and other nearby areas.