Expert: Catalina Leiva Bascur
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Senior.
Faculty of Natural Sciences and Oceanography
What are the characteristics of this mammal, and where does it live?
The güiña (Leopardus guigna) or kodkod is the smallest wild cat in America. It is between 39 and 48 cm tall and weighs up to 3 kg. Dark spots cover its coat. It is nocturnal, solitary, and a good climber. It inhabits temperate forests and dense shrublands of south-central Chile and southwestern Argentina. It feeds on rodents, birds, and insects. Due to the threats it faces, it is classified as a vulnerable species.
Can it live in places close to cities, like the Nature Campus?
Yes, it can live in areas close to urban or semi-urban areas, such as the Nature Campus of the University of Concepción, as long as there are suitable remnants of native vegetation or habitats. However, this proximity to human environments exposes it to greater threats, such as vehicle traffic, the presence of free-roaming dogs, and the loss of habitat connectivity.
What are the main threats affecting this species?
The main threats are the loss and fragmentation of habitat due to urban expansion, agriculture, and forestry; attacks and competition with free-roaming dogs; becoming roadkill on rural roads; illegal hunting despite being protected; and the decrease of prey due to ecosystem alterations.
Last modified: 3 de septiembre de 2025
