Gold mining threatens tilcayo habitat in Bolivia

Gold mining expansion in the Yungas region of La Paz, Bolivia, is threatening the habitat of the tilcayo (Leopardus tilcayo), a wild feline species recently identified by science.

In the municipality of Coroico, data from 2025 indicates there are 16 authorized mining areas and 129 additional areas currently in the application or processing stage. Environmental organizations and local communities have raised alarms regarding the impact of these extractive activities on forest cover, water sources, and river health.

An inspection by the Administrative Jurisdictional Mining Authority (AJAM) near the Senda Verde wildlife refuge confirmed the presence of heavy machinery, deforestation, and signs of contamination in the Coroico River. Additionally, 12 communities linked to the Río Negro reserve are seeking legal protection for approximately 6,200 hectares to mitigate the impact of mining advancement.