Kinkajou (Potos flavus) Fact Sheet: Population & Conservation Status

Global population

• No published estimates
• Population trend: decreasing (Helgen et al. 2016)

Density estimates

• In Veracruz, Mexico
  • 12.5 individuals per km² (Estrada and Coates-Estrada 1985)
• In French Guiana
  • 20-30 individuals per km² (Charles-Dominique et al. 1981)

IUCN Status

• Least Concern (2015 assessment) (Helgen et al. 2016)
  • Wide distribution
  • Adaptable to a degree of human land-use change
  • No evidence of significant population declines

CITES Status

• Appendix III for Honduras (UNEP 2019)

Other Status

• Mexican Red List species
  • Given special protection (SEMARNAT 2010)

Human disturbance and deforestation (Kays et al. 2008)

Hunting (Kays et al. 2008)

• Taken for meat and pelt

Capture for the pet trade (Kays et al. 2008)

Populations within protected areas

• In Mexico (Figueroa and Arita 2013)
• Calakmul, in the state of Quintana Roo
• Montes Azules, in the state of Chiapas

Needed actions

• In Mexico
• Comprehensive distribution and population studies needed (Figueroa and Arita 2013)

Kinkajou are not currently listed as threatened by the IUCN. Human caused habitat disturbance and loss as well as hunting and capture of animals for the pet trade may lead to population declines in the future. 

Image credit: © San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. All rights reserved.

Charles-Dominique et al. (1981)
Estrada and Coates-Estrada (1985)
Figuerosa et al. (2013)
Kays et al. (2008)
SEMARNAT (2010)