Northern Colocolo
The Northern Colocolo (Leopardus garleppi), also known as Garlepp’s pampas cat, is a small wild feline native to the high-altitude regions of western South America. Previously considered a subspecies of the colocolo (Leopardus colocolo), it was recently recognized as a distinct species based on genetic and morphological differences. This elusive and little-studied wildcat inhabits the Andean puna and páramo ecosystems, where it plays a crucial role as a predator of small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Due to its remote and rugged habitat, the Northern Colocolo remains one of the least-documented wildcats in the world, with much of its biology and behavior still unknown.
Meet the Northern Colocolo
Classification
The Northern Colocolo is similar in size to a domestic cat but has a more robust build and a thick, bushy tail. Adults typically measure between 46 and 75 cm (18 to 30 inches) in body length, with tails adding another 23 to 29 cm (9 to 11 inches). They weigh between 3 to 7 kg (6.6 to 15.4 lbs), with males being slightly larger than females.
Its coat coloration varies based on its environment, ranging from grayish-brown to yellowish-brown, often with distinctive dark brown or black markings. These markings may appear as spots, stripes, or irregular blotches, providing excellent camouflage in its rocky and grassy habitat.
Some individuals exhibit more pronounced striping along their legs and tail, while others have a more uniformly spotted appearance. The fur is dense and thick, an adaptation to the cold, high-altitude climates where it resides. The tail is ringed with dark bands and has a black tip, and the back of its ears is dark with central white spots—a characteristic seen in many small wildcats.
Where Does the Northern Colocolo Live?
Biogeographic Realm: Neotropic
Continents: Americas
Subcontinents: South America
Countries: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia [Show all countries]
The Northern Colocolo is found in the high-altitude regions of the Andes, primarily in Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and northern Chile and Argentina. It inhabits a range of environments, including:
- Andean puna and páramo ecosystems – Found at elevations between 1,800 to 5,000 meters (5,900 to 16,400 feet), where sparse vegetation and extreme temperatures make survival challenging.
- High-altitude grasslands and shrublands – Prefers open, rugged terrain with low-lying vegetation and rocky outcrops.
- Dry forests and woodlands – Can be found in montane forests with scattered tree cover and dense underbrush.
- Rocky outcrops and semi-arid regions – Frequently encountered in arid, mountainous landscapes with limited vegetation.
This wildcat is highly adaptable and has been observed in degraded habitats near human settlements, although it primarily prefers remote areas with minimal human disturbance. Due to the difficulty of accessing its habitat, much of its range remains poorly studied.
What Do Northern Colocolos Eat?
As an obligate carnivore, the Northern Colocolo primarily preys on small vertebrates. Its diet includes:
- Rodents – Such as guinea pigs, viscachas, and other small Andean mammals.
- Birds – Ground-nesting species and their eggs form a significant part of its diet.
- Reptiles – Lizards and small snakes are commonly hunted.
- Insects – Large arthropods may supplement its diet, particularly in regions where vertebrate prey is scarce.
This species is a stealthy and opportunistic hunter, relying on its keen eyesight and hearing to detect prey. It likely hunts by stalking and pouncing, similar to other Leopardus species. While primarily nocturnal, it has been observed being active during the early morning and late afternoon in some areas.
What Eats Northern Colocolos? – Predators & Natural Enemies
The Northern Colocolo, being a small predator, has several natural enemies, including:
- Pumas (Puma concolor) – The dominant predator in the Andean region, capable of hunting small to medium-sized mammals.
- Andean Foxes (Lycalopex culpaeus) – Opportunistic predators that may prey on young or vulnerable Northern Colocolos.
- Large Birds of Prey – Raptors such as the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) and black-chested buzzard-eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus) may target juveniles.
However, the most significant threats to the Northern Colocolo are human-related. Habitat destruction due to mining, agriculture, and infrastructure expansion poses a serious risk. Additionally, some individuals are hunted in retaliation for preying on domestic poultry.
Behavior & Lifestyle
The behavior of the Northern Colocolo remains largely undocumented due to its secretive nature and remote habitat. However, based on observations of related species, it is believed to be:
- Solitary – Individuals maintain distinct territories and only come together during mating season.
- Nocturnal or crepuscular – Most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours to avoid larger predators.
- Territorial – Males have larger home ranges than females, and both mark their territory using scent marking and scratching.
- Arboreal abilities – While primarily ground-dwelling, it is capable of climbing trees to escape predators or hunt birds.
Unlike some other wildcats, the Northern Colocolo is adapted to extreme cold, making it one of the most resilient felines in the high Andes.
How Do Northern Colocolos Reproduce?
The breeding season of the Northern Colocolo is not well studied, but it is believed to follow a pattern similar to other small wildcats. Mating likely occurs during the warmer months, with peak births occurring in late spring and early summer. After a gestation period of approximately 80 to 85 days, females give birth to a litter of one to three kittens.
Newborn kittens are blind and completely dependent on their mother. They remain in a sheltered den for the first few weeks and begin exploring their surroundings at around six weeks old. Weaning occurs by three months, and juveniles start hunting independently by six months. Sexual maturity is reached at 18 to 24 months.
The average lifespan of a Northern Colocolo in the wild is estimated to be 10 to 12 years, though it may live longer in captivity.
Are Northern Colocolos Endangered? – Conservation Status & Threats
As a recently recognized species, the Northern Colocolo has not yet been separately assessed by the IUCN Red List. However, it was previously grouped under the colocolo complex, which was listed as Near Threatened. Based on its habitat and population trends, the Northern Colocolo is likely facing similar threats:
- Habitat destruction – Mining, agriculture, and deforestation are reducing suitable living areas.
- Human-wildlife conflict – Farmers may kill them to protect poultry.
- Climate change – Altering the high-altitude ecosystems they depend on.
- Lack of research – Limited data makes conservation planning difficult.
Given its remote and inaccessible habitat, conservation efforts for the Northern Colocolo remain minimal. However, potential measures include:
- Habitat protection – Expanding Andean national parks and reserves.
- Research and monitoring – Conducting camera trap surveys and genetic studies.
- Community engagement – Working with local communities to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
The future of the Northern Colocolo depends on increased awareness and targeted conservation efforts. Further research is needed to fully understand its population size, ecology, and specific threats to ensure the protection of this rare and fascinating Andean wildcat.
