A small wild cat found in Bolivia’s cloud forest has been recognized as a newly discovered species, marking the first formal classification of a living cat species in over a century. Known as Tilcayo by local communities, this cat belongs to the tiger cats group spread across much of South America. It was located in Bolivia’s Yungas forest, a mountainous area characterized by cloud-covered forests and high humidity. Measuring approximately 46 centimeters (18 inches) in length and weighing around three pounds, Tilcayo is smaller than the average domestic cat.
Genetic analysis confirmed that the cat is indeed a new species, named Leopardus tilcayo while retaining its local moniker. Described by Paola Nogales Ascarrunz, a National Geographic explorer and study co-author, the cat’s fur is light brown with irregular rosettes on its body. Limited information is available regarding the cat’s biology and habits; however, traces of small rodents in its scat samples suggest they may be part of its diet, and camera-trap data indicates nocturnal activity.
Tiger cats are considered cryptic species, making them challenging to distinguish based on appearance alone, as explained by evolutionary biologist Jonas Lescroart, the study’s co-lead author. Formerly perceived as a single species, genetic studies from decades ago hinted at the presence of multiple species within the tiger cats group.
Only two live individuals of the new species have been discovered so far. The researchers examined a 10-year-old male cat now residing in Senda Verde Wildlife Sanctuary, previously kept by a local family. DNA analysis from 38 cats sampled across various South American countries, including museum specimens, revealed five genetically distinct tiger cat species.
The study proposes listing the new species as endangered, a stark contrast to the current vulnerable status of tiger cats as two species with declining populations on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s red list. The researchers aim to provide a comprehensive assessment of the five tiger cat lineages, potentially highlighting the endangered status of species like the Tilcayo individually.
The urgency of conservation efforts is emphasized, particularly in the threatened Yungas ecosystem facing deforestation, agricultural encroachment, fires, and mining. Restoring damaged forest patches, safeguarding native forests, and preserving habitat connections are crucial priorities, stressed by Nogales Ascarrunz. The discovery of new species like Tilcayo underscores the importance of biodiversity conservation and the need to protect undiscovered species facing extinction threats.