New Cat Species Discovered In Bolivia After More Than A Century

Scientists have identified a previously unknown wild cat species in Bolivia, marking the first discovery of a novel feline species in more than a century.

Named Leopardus tilcayo, the tiny tiger cat was formally described in a study published in Current Biology.

Genetic analysis later showed that L. tilcayo represents a distinct lineage that separated from related cats about 1.4 million years ago.

The species lives in Bolivia’s Yungas cloud forests and weighs only about 3 to 4 pounds, making it smaller than most domestic cats. Researchers say the discovery could increase conservation attention in the region and prompt scientists to reassess other tiger cats that may have been grouped incorrectly.

Researchers plan to deploy camera traps in the Yungas to estimate populations while incorporating local knowledge. Communities in the region have recognized the animal, known locally as “tilcayo,” for generations.

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tippinsightsTIPP Staff