Meet Earth's newest wild cat species, living in Bolivia and the first named in over a century
Summary
Scientists have identified a new wild cat species living in Bolivia's Yungas forests, named Leopardus tilcayo. This small, spotted cat is the first new wild cat species named in over 100 years and differs genetically from other South American cats.Key Facts
- The new cat species was found in a wildlife sanctuary in Bolivia, where it lived after being cared for by a local family.
- The cat is smaller than an average house cat, about 18 inches long (excluding tail) and weighing 3 pounds.
- Researchers compared DNA from over 30 wild cats across South America to confirm it as a unique species.
- The cat’s lineage split from its closest relatives about 1.4 million years ago.
- The species was named Leopardus tilcayo, respecting the local indigenous name from the Andes region.
- Scientists previously thought all similar tiger cats in South America were one species but found at least five distinct species.
- The cat’s full habitat range, diet, and behavior are still unknown, with confirmed sightings only in Bolivia’s Yungas forests.
- Protecting the new species’ habitat is important due to threats from deforestation and mining.
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