New cat species identified in Bolivia for first time in more than a century
New species of wild cat was discovered in Bolivia’s Yungas forest and is smaller than the average domestic cat
TL;DR
- A previously unknown species of wild cat, named Leopardus tilcayo, has been identified in Bolivia's cloud forest.
- This marks the first new living cat species formally named and described in over 100 years.
- The cat, locally known as Tilcayo, is a small tiger cat, measuring about 18 inches long and weighing 3 pounds.
- Genetic data confirmed its status as a new species, distinguishing it from other tiger cats.
- The research indicates there are actually five genetically distinct species of tiger cats across South America.
- A new tiger cat subspecies, Leopardus tigrinus antisuyo, was also described in Peru.
- The discovery highlights the potential for new species to be discovered but also at risk of extinction.
- Threats to the Yungas ecosystem, including deforestation and human activity, put its biodiversity at risk.
- Accurate conservation assessments are crucial, as species like the Tilcayo might be considered endangered when evaluated individually.