Preservação do gato-do-mato na região do Alto Uruguai

Abstract

The current work has the purpose of making the population from Alto Uruguai aware of the preservation of the wild cat. Thereunto, practical actions were performed following the methodology of action research and aiming to reduce the conflicts between farmers and the species of little spotted cat (Leopardus tigrinus) and margay (leopardus wiedii). The conflict is the main factor of the wild felines slaughter which are obligated to hunt for food close to the residences because of the deforestation and the constant forest fires. This work was developed with the collaboration of a group of youths from the Scout Movement in Erechim/RS who participated actively as social agents in the process of development of the actions and the research with large publicity in the local and regional press. With the results of the action research it was possible to verify a sensitization process and also the comprehension of the habits and characteristics of these species, mainly the importance of them for the biotic chain. Nevertheless, there are established cultural processes about the felines hunt which demand time to be modified. The research is concluded recognizing the importance of the Environmental Education Projects associated with practical actions in order to make a true cultural change happen and enabling a peaceful acquaintance of humans with wild cats.