New cat species identified in Bolivia, first in over a century
Researchers have identified a new species of wild cat, Leopardus tilcayo, in Bolivia's cloud forests using genetic analysis. This discovery marks the first new living cat species described in over a century.
Why it matters
The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity conservation in remote, under-studied ecosystems and the utility of genetic testing in taxonomy.
A diminutive wild cat that inhabits Bolivia’s cloud forest has been identified as a previously unknown species, marking the first time a new living cat species has been formally named and described in more than a century.
The cat, called Tilcayo by local communities, is part of a group called tiger cats found across much of South America. It was found in Bolivia’s lush Yungas forest, a mountainous region where forests are often covered by clouds and surrounded by high humidity, according to researchers. It measures about 46 cm long and weighs around 1.4 kg, making it smaller than the average domestic cat.
Researchers used genetic data to confirm that the cat is a new species, and gave it the scientific name Leopardus tilcayo, retaining its local name.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in