A multinational, interdisciplinary network of conservation professionals founded the Andean Cat Alliance (Alianza Gato Andino, or AGA) in 1999 to develop coordinated conservation actions for the species and its habitat across its four-country range.

Contributing to the knowledge and conservation of the Andean cat and its habitat for the past 25 years, AGA uses innovative strategies in research, conservation, community participation and support in the management of wild areas.

 The organization’s vision is the conservation and long-term protection of Andean cat populations and their habitat, in harmony with human communities.

Over the years, AGA has identified the most important direct and indirect threats to Andean cat populations. Through multinational programs, AGA is neutralizing and diminishing these threats while working with local communities to enhance the security of Andean cat populations.

Five Strategies for Known Threats

1. Conflict Mitigation - The Conflict Mitigation Program aims to eliminate the retaliatory hunting of Andean cats by herders.

2. Collaboration with Artisans - The CATcrafts Program aims to preserve the habitat of the Andean cat through the development of sustainable economic alternatives for the local communities by working with women artisans to create products that can be sold through fair trade channels.

3. Education current and future generations - The Education Program is an innovative strategy to increase the knowledge and raise awareness about the relevance of the Andean cat and its environment, valuing natural resources and their relationship with communities. The material and activities are adaptable to different audiences, from elementary school students to technical staff from governmental agencies.

4. Field Work - The In the Field 24/7 Program focuses on camera trapping and the collection of material for genetic analysis. Cameras are a non-invasive, sustainable tool for recording behavior and tracking habitat. Genetic analysis is performed using scat, fur, and tooth samples collected along the trail to evaluate the potential impact of diseases and parasites transmitted by domestic animals on cat populations.

5. Pet Owner Education - Pawsitive Actions aims to increase responsible ownership of domestic dogs and cats to reduce their impacts on wildlife and human health. Direct impacts include attacks on domestic and wild animals, including Andean cats.

AGA has partnered with the Modular Education Program, the Green Gold Program, and the Catcrafts Program, as well as with research projects that study the impact of habitat degradation on Andena cat populations. Activities are ongoing to learn more information so that more sustainable strategies can be implemented to make a difference.

Together, we can ensure a future where Andean cats—and the communities who share their landscapes—can thrive in balance.

Your donation directly supports on-the-ground conservation, protects vital habitats, and empowers local partners who are safeguarding these rare and beautiful cats for generations to come.

Every gift, big or small, makes a tangible difference. Join us today and be part of a shared commitment to protect the Andean cat and the wild places we all depend on.