The puma is the largest feline found in Chile, and after the jaguar, the second largest in America. Its vast distribution,spanning a total of 28 countries, from the cold forests of northern Canada to the extensive pampas of Patagonia, in the Strait of Magellan, makes it the most widely distributed land mammal in the world. Forests, coasts, deserts, mountains,and pampas are just some of the many ecosystems in which this resilient animal has managed to survive. Its large size (it can weigh more than 100 kilos), incredible strength, and agility make it an efficient hunter, able to feed on prey that even doubles or triples its size.
Foto: Pía Vergara @piavergarafotografia
While adult pumas are mostly solitary animals, it is possible to observe some interactions associated with feeding events,as well as territorial disputes and courtship during reproductive seasons. In pumas, the female is responsible for the arduous task of raising the cubs, which can be between 1 and 4, and after being fed and taught by their mother, they achieve independence on average between one and one and a half years of age.
Regarding its conservation status, the puma is listed as "Least Concern" by both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Species Classification Regulation (RCE) of the Ministry of the Environment in Chile.
Foto: Pía Vergara @piavergarafotografia
The word puma comes from Quechua, meaning "powerful animal," being a feline revered in various cultures throughout its distribution. Despite this, life has not been easy for this majestic feline. It has been persecuted and hunted for over a century due to the conflict with livestock activity. This has led to dozens of pumas being killed in retaliation for livestock losses, decimating their population in various parts of both Chile and the world, being one of the main threats to their conservation. In Patagonia, the situation has not been different, and several dozen pumas continue to be hunted both legally and illegally for their interaction with livestock.
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