New wild cat species found in Bolivia's cloud forest
A new feline species smaller than a house cat has been formally identified in Bolivia's Yungas forest for the first time in over a century.
Researchers have identified a new wild cat species in Bolivia's cloud forest. No feline species has been formally named for more than a century.
The new cat, called tilcayo by local communities, measures about 18 inches long and weighs around 1.4 kilograms. Genetic analysis of 38 cats across South America confirmed the tilcayo was a distinct species.
Its fur is light brown with rosette patterns across its body. Camera-trap evidence suggests it hunts small rodents and is active mainly at night.
Scientists had thought tiger cats were one species but found they are actually five genetically distinct species.
- About 18 inches (46 centimeters)
- Body length
- About 1.4 kilograms (3 pounds)
- Weight
- Over a century
- Time since last feline species named
- 38 cats across South America
- Tiger cats analyzed
Why it mattersNew species discovery shows that large parts of the world still harbour unknown animals, especially in biodiverse mountain regions.
AustraliaNo direct impact for Australia, but highlights the importance of tropical forest protection worldwide and the potential for further discoveries in remote ecosystems.
Corroborated bywashingtonpost.com
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 7 d ago
