New wild cat species discovered - with only one known living member
Summary
Scientists have discovered a new species of small wild cat in the forests of Bolivia. This cat, about the size of a house cat, was previously mistaken for other similar wild cats but DNA tests show it is a distinct species, named Leopardus tilcayo or "Tigrino."Key Facts
- The new wild cat species was found in Bolivia's forests and is about the size of a domestic cat.
- Only one confirmed living member of this species is known, living in a wildlife sanctuary.
- It was previously confused with similar wild cats called tiger cats, found across Central and South America.
- The discovery was made after DNA studies comparing living animals and museum samples.
- The species is called Leopardus tilcayo, nicknamed "Tigrino."
- Tiger cats are vulnerable due to habitat loss, deforestation, and hunting.
- This discovery suggests there may be five tiger cat species, not three as previously thought.
- Scientists hope this finding will help conservation efforts by identifying the species and where it lives.
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