Endangered mammals of Chile: Status and conservation

The native mammalian fauna of Chile has suffered reductions in distribution and abundance. Of the 78 species of native mammals, 22 species plus 15 races of 5 additional species are of conservation concern. The status of each of these threatened taxons is given, using IUCN criteria, along with a discussion of the reasons for their status of concern. Exploitation for meat or pelts combined with habitat deterioration are the most prevalent reasons for the endangering of wildlife in Chile. Central Chile, the most developed and populated region, has the highest proportion of mammalian fauna of conservational concern, followed closely by arid northern Chile. Chilean authorities, with international assistance, have made progress in addressing these problems but much remains to be done that will require continued international assistance if many unique forms are to be preserved.