The
taxonomic evaluation of 96 museum specimens has lead to the conclusion that
given the geographic differences of this cat, the "Pampas Cat" may
actually be 3 distinct species: Lynchailurus pajeros (high Andes from
Equador to Patagonia and throughout Argentina), L. braccatus (Brazil,
Paraguay, and Uruguay), and L. colocolo (Chile). Molecular analysis is
planned for these specimens to prove this theory.
Zoological name: Oncifelis colocolo
Species: Wozencraft (1993) classified this species in the genus
Oncifelis, highlighting the close relationship the pampas cat has with the
other members of this genus (Geoffroy’s cat O. geoffroyi and the
kodkod, O. guigna). It has been known as a member of the Felis and
Lynchailurus genera. In addition, the specific name pajeros has been used.
Seven subspecies have been described:
- F. (O.) c. colocolo Central Chile
- F. (O.) c. braccata Central Brazil
- F. (O.) c. budini Northwest Argentina
- F. (O.) c. crespoi Northwest Argentina
- F. (O.) c. garleppi South Peru and west Bolivia
- F. (O.) c. pajeros Central Argentina
- F. (O.) c. thomasi Ecuador and north Peru
The Chilean subspecies are more distinctly marked than the Argentinian
individuals. The definition of the subspecies of many animals is the subject
of considerable systematic controversy. Very few specimens of pampas cats
exist, and classifications are sometimes based on much speculation.
Presence on the planet: Pampas cats, Oncifelis colocolo, have an
expansive geographic range. In fact, they have been said to have a greater
geographic range than any other South American cat. They are found in the
forested slopes of the Andes in Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, the cloud
forests of Chile, the Paraguayan chaco, open woodland areas of central,
western, northeastern, and southern Brazil, the pampas of Argentina and
Uruguay, and southern Patagonia.
Physical appearance: Pampas cats look like heavy set domestic cats,
and the fur can vary from thick and soft in colder areas to thin and
straw-like in warmer climates. The colour can vary from yellowish-white and
greyish-yellow to brown, grey brown, silvery grey and light grey. Underparts
are whitish or cream, and marked with brown or black spots. There can be red
grey spots or streaks on the pelage, or the coat can be almost unmarked
except for brown bands on the legs and tail. There are long, mane-like guard
hairs on the back up to seven cm long, that they erect when frightened or
nervous. Their head is broad with a short muzzle, and relatively large,
amber eyes. The ears are somewhat pointed, and are grey black on the backs
with a silvery white central spot. The legs are short and stout, marked with
brown or black bars and spots. Their tail is fairly short and bushy,
sometimes marked with indistinct rings.
Diet: O. colocolo preys upon small mammals, such as guinea pigs, as
well as ground-dwelling birds. It has been observed taking penguin eggs and
chicks from nests. Pampas cats are known to take poultry in areas of human
population. (IUCN, 1996; Silveira, 1995; Garman, 1997)
- Foods eaten
- Small mammals
- Guinea pigs
- Ground-dwelling birds
- Penguin eggs
- Penguin chicks
- Poultry
Reproduction & Offspring: After a gestation of 80-85 days they
produce a litter of 1-3 young. They reach maturity at around 21 months in
captivity. They are also believed to have a set breeding period of April to
July in captivity.
Conservation status: O. colocolo is listed in CITES Appendix 2.
Habitat destruction across their range is the major threat to this species.
The pampas regions of Argentina and Uruguay have been heavily settled and
grazed, which is suspected to have had a negative impact on pampas cat
populations. Reduction of the prey base of O. colocolo is also a problem.
Trade of pampas cat pelts was ended in 1987. This species is listed as an
endangered by the Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e Recursos Naturais
Renov·veis. O. colocolo is considered a rare species according to the
rarity classification of Rabinowitz, because it is found in a widespread
geographic range, is a habitat specialist, and occurs at low population
densities.
Life span: 16 years
The name colocolo
It is believed that Molina named this species after an Araucanian warrior
chief (Colocolo). In Argentina, the pampas cat is known as the “gato
pajero” or grass cat. García-Perea (1994) states that pajeros is
the Spanish for straw, and that they often live in reed beds.
