A small wild cat found in Bolivia’s cloud forest has been recognized as a previously unidentified species, marking the first formal naming of a new living cat species in over a century. Known as Tilcayo by local communities, this cat is part of the tiger cats group that are widespread across South America. Discovered in Bolivia’s Yungas forest, a mountainous area characterized by cloud-covered forests and high humidity, the cat is approximately 46 centimeters (18 inches) long and weighs around three pounds, making it smaller than the average house cat.
Scientists utilized genetic data to confirm that this cat is indeed a new species and named it Leopardus tilcayo, retaining its local name. According to Paola Nogales Ascarrunz, a National Geographic explorer and study co-author, the cat’s fur is light brown with irregularly shaped rosettes on its body. The cat’s biology and lifestyle are still largely unknown, but evidence from scat samples suggests it preys on small rodents, and camera-trap data indicates it may be more active during nighttime.
Tiger cats are considered cryptic species, meaning they are not easily distinguishable by appearance alone, explained evolutionary biologist Jonas Lescroart, co-lead author of the study. Previous genetic studies hinted at the presence of multiple tiger cat species, contrary to the belief that they were a single species.
The research team identified only two live individuals of the new species so far, with one residing in the Senda Verde Wildlife Sanctuary. Genetic analysis revealed that the Tilcayo lineage diverged from other tiger cats approximately 1.4 million years ago. Additionally, a new tiger cat subspecies was described in Peru’s Yungas and named Leopardus tigrinus antisuyo after the region it inhabits.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s red list currently classifies tiger cats as two vulnerable species with declining populations. The researchers have notified the IUCN about their findings, and a forthcoming review will assess the five lineages separately, potentially leading to a more accurate assessment of species risks. The Tilcayo and similar species could be considered endangered when evaluated individually.
In the face of threats such as deforestation, agricultural expansion, fires, and mining in the Yungas ecosystem, urgent conservation actions are needed, emphasized Nogales Ascarrunz. Protecting and restoring native forests and preserving habitat connectivity are crucial priorities in safeguarding these newly discovered species and their habitats. The discovery of new species like the Tilcayo cat highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect biodiversity at risk of disappearing before being identified.
