Scientists Identify New Small Wild Cat Species in Bolivia's Cloud Forest

Researchers have described a previously unknown tiger-cat species, Leopardus tilcayo, from the Yungas cloud forest on Bolivia's eastern Andes slope. The animal measures 45-50 cm in body length with a 10-inch tail and weighs between 1.4 and 2 kg, making it smaller than a typical housecat. The discovery follows a genome study of 38 felines from across South America, which also examined museum specimens, and shows that the group of small wild cats known as tigrillos comprises five separate species rather than a single one.

The new species was first noticed when a volunteer at a local sanctuary observed an unusual cat rescued by a resident who had initially thought it was a stray kitten. After the animal displayed wild behavior, it was taken to the sanctuary for further examination. Genetic comparisons with other regional populations allowed scientists to clarify evolutionary relationships and identify Leopardus tilcayo as a distinct lineage.

"Altogether, our results clarify the evolutionary history of a complex radiation of wild cats, reveal novel taxa, and serve as a basis for conservation planning on behalf of these elusive wild cats," the study authors wrote.

The researchers warn that treating all tigrillos as a single conservation unit is insufficient. Habitat loss, fragmentation, hunting, disease from domestic animals and climate change pose increasing threats, while low genetic diversity may limit the cats' ability to adapt. They recommend targeted studies of each lineage's distribution, genetic health and specific threats to guide effective protection strategies.