According to Conservation International, the Polylepis forests, where these species live, are among the highest found anywhere in the world. The newly described creatures live among mountain lions, Southern viscacha, Andean cats and North Andean deer. Logging, shepherding, forest fires and mining are all threats, and Conservation International is advocating for the forests' designation as Private Conservation Areas.
Like all forests, these supply the region with oxygen and clean water, and help prevent soil erosion. For the 130 families that live in the Polylepis there, the forests are also the primary source of firewood, medicine and food.
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