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A New Exploration
The Ridgeline Project
Exploring the last strong holds of Costa Rica's small wild cats, in The Talamanca Mountain Range
Introduction
The Ridgeline Project is a collaborative initiative between The Wild Cat Imaging Project and Cuatro Gatos Conservancion, dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge of elusive wild cat species in Chirripó National Park & Reserva Aurora. This effort will implement a systematic camera-trapping network along four key ridgelines within the park to document the presence, distribution, and behavior of rare felids, with a primary focus on the oncilla (Leopardus pardinoides).
Despite significant conservation efforts, many Neotropical wild cats remain poorly understood due to their cryptic nature and nocturnal behaviors. The oncilla, a small and rarely documented wild cat species, faces multiple threats, including habitat fragmentation and climate change. This project aims to address key knowledge gaps concerning their ecology, habitat preferences, and interactions with sympatric carnivores. As well as highlighting and fostering the conservation of the wild cats within the community.
The Study
Chirripó National Park extends from mid-elevation montane forests (~2,200 m) up to the páramo ecosystems above 3,400 m, making it one of the highest-altitude monitoring projects for wild cats in Central America.
The forest types found throughout the study area are, lower montane cloud forest (1,500–2,500 m). Featuring dense, humid forest which provide habitats for all six wild felid species in Costa Rica. Upper montane rainforest (2,500–3,200 m), dominated by high-altitude oak species (Quercus costaricensis). Lastly, subalpine páramo and shrublands (3,200–3,820 m). Harsh, open landscapes with dwarf bamboo, grasses, and stunted trees.
Limited mammalian presence, but critical for monitoring potential high-altitude felid activity. This diverse gradient allows for comparative analyses of wild cat activity across different elevations and habitats.
The findings of this project can contribute to the development of responsible ecotourism initiatives in Chirripó National Park. By highlighting the presence of elusive and rare wild cats, we can generate interest in wildlife observation tours that benefit both conservation and local economies. Educational signage, guided tours, and interactive exhibits on wild cat ecology could enhance visitor experiences while promoting conservation awareness.
This project aligns with global efforts to conserve small wild cats, contributing to broader ecological and conservation science. The data collected will be published in peer-reviewed journals and shared with conservation agencies to enhance understanding and protection of Neotropical felids.
The Ridgeline Project relies on the support of people who share our passion for protecting Costa Rica’s wild cats. Every contribution makes a difference in helping us document and safeguard these rare species.
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Donations: Your financial support helps us maintain camera traps, fund field expeditions, and analyze critical data. Please contact us if you would like to show your support. When submitting tax-exempt donations to the link below, please use a sum with 0.39 cent so we can locate your donation clearly.
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Equipment Support: Trail cameras, DSLR setups, batteries, and field gear are always in demand. Donating or sponsoring equipment directly strengthens our monitoring capacity.
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Partnerships: NGOs, research groups, and companies can collaborate with us to expand conservation impact through shared expertise and resources.
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Spread the Word: Sharing our work helps raise awareness about the challenges these small cats face, bringing more visibility to their conservation needs.
Together, we can ensure these elusive cats continue to thrive in the Talamanca Mountains.
How You Can Help
