A small wild cat living in Bolivia’s cloud forest has been recognized as a new species, making it the first time a fresh feline species has been officially identified in over a century. Known as Tilcayo by locals, this cat belongs to the tiger cat group found widely in South America. It was discovered in Bolivia’s dense Yungas forest, a mountainous area characterized by cloud-covered forests and high humidity. Researchers determined through genetic analysis that this cat, measuring approximately 46 centimeters in length and weighing around three pounds, is a distinct species. They named it Leopardus tilcayo after confirming its uniqueness.
Described as having light brown fur with irregular rosettes on its body, the Tilcayo cat’s biology and habits are still largely unknown. Research suggests it may feed on small rodents based on scat samples, and camera-trap data indicates it could be more active during the night. Tiger cats, like Tilcayo, are considered cryptic species as they are difficult to differentiate based on appearance alone. Previous studies hinted at the existence of multiple tiger cat species, contrary to the belief that they were a single species.
The study, which analyzed DNA from 38 cats in various South American countries, including museum specimens, revealed the presence of five genetically distinct tiger cat species. The Tilcayo lineage was estimated to have separated from other tiger cats around 1.4 million years ago. Additionally, a new tiger cat subspecies was identified in Peru’s Yungas and named Leopardus tigrinus antisuyo after the region within the old Inca Empire where it resides.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently classifies tiger cats as two vulnerable species with declining populations. The research team shared their findings with the IUCN for an upcoming review that will assess the five tiger cat lineages separately. This evaluation could lead to a more accurate understanding of the risks faced by species like Tilcayo, potentially resulting in their classification as endangered.
Given the urgent need for a comprehensive assessment, especially in threatened ecosystems like the Yungas, conservation efforts are crucial. The Yungas region is under increasing pressure from deforestation, agriculture expansion, human-induced fires, and mining activities. To safeguard these habitats, restoring damaged forest patches, preserving native forests, and maintaining habitat connectivity are vital priorities. This discovery also emphasizes the importance of protecting undiscovered species at risk of extinction before we even become aware of their existence.
