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Park Rangers Train in Detection and Control of American Mink in Torres del Paine National Park

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Following the first-ever detection of an American mink (Neogale vison) in Torres del Paine National Park in December 2024, park rangers from the National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) in Magallanes were trained in detecting and controlling this species, considered a threat to the biodiversity of Patagonian ecosystems.

To strengthen the Early Detection Plan implemented since 2019 in Torres del Paine National Park, the workshop targeted CONAF rangers and Explora Reserve staff through five days of theoretical and field-based practical sessions. It provided tools for ethical and efficient mink capture while complementing ongoing camera trap monitoring efforts.

The training included rangers responsible for protected wilderness areas managed by CONAF, such as Torres del Paine National Park, Bernardo O’Higgins National Park, Magallanes National Reserve, and Parrillar National Reserve, as well as staff from the regional office and Explora Reserve rangers.

The training took place at a critical time, considering the first visual record of the species in the Park late last year. It also serves as a measure to prevent its territorial expansion, significantly increasing management success rates and marking a milestone in prevention efforts.

The Magallanes region has prioritized this issue, making the workshop possible through collaboration between CONAF, the private sector represented by the neighboring Explora Reserve, and wildlife management specialist consultancy Telinject Chile SPA. This reflects a commitment to active conservation and prevention against biological invasions like the mink.

The American mink is one of the most harmful invasive species for Patagonia’s biodiversity, particularly due to its impact on aquatic birds, small mammals, fish, and riparian ecosystems.

During the field training, the presence of an American mink was confirmed in the Río Serrano sector, highlighting the need to advance local technical capacity-building for timely action. This aims to prevent its spread and protect the rich native biodiversity of the UNESCO-designated Torres del Paine Biosphere Reserve.