The huiña is a nocturnal feline that weighs only 2.5 kilos, making it the smallest in America. It is known for producing a sound similar to a bird rather than a felid. Despite being an elusive creature, biologist Ilaria Agostini has been studying the ecology and conservation of the huiña in Argentina. Her work sheds light on the challenges this small feline faces in its native habitat.
Ilaria explains that one of the biggest threats to the huiña is habitat loss due to deforestation and human encroachment. Additionally, hunting and trapping have also contributed to its decline. In an effort to protect this endangered species, conservationists have been working with local communities to implement sustainable practices and establish protected areas.
The huiña is not the only wild cat species found in Argentina, which adds complexity to their coexistence with other species in their ecosystem. However, research has shown that they share a phylogenetic relationship with each other, which highlights their genetic ties despite their physical differences. For example, while both species are black-striped on their cheeks, the huiña has shorter legs and hairier tail compared to other wild cats in Argentina.
Despite its small size and elusive nature, there are still some residents who report sightings of the huiña in areas where camera traps have shown its presence. However, many have not seen one for over 20 years, highlighting its rarity and how little is known about it as a species compared to other animals in South America.
In Chile, where it is known as “la güiña,” there are more documented cases of sightings and knowledge about its behavior and habits compared to Argentina’s population of this small feline
