Newly Discovered Bolivian Wild Cat Species Draws Tourist Interest
Scientists have identified a new small wild cat species in Bolivia's cloud forests, attracting visitors to a sanctuary where the shy animal is kept out of public view.
A newly described wild cat species, Leopardus tilcayo, has been confirmed by researchers and is generating interest among tourists visiting the Senda Verde Wildlife Sanctuary near La Paz. The animal, measuring about 18 inches from head to the base of its tail and weighing roughly 3 pounds, is smaller than a typical domestic cat and bears distinctive leopard-like spots.
The sanctuary, which has housed the cat since 2017 after it was rescued from an attempted domestic life, limits public access to the animal because it becomes easily stressed. When reporters visited on Sunday, the cat briefly emerged, sniffed the surroundings and then retreated into foliage.
Sanctuary co-founder Marcelo Levy said the cat’s recent classification as a new species has helped raise awareness of conservation needs for wild cats and their forest habitats in Bolivia. He noted that the animal has become an informal ambassador for those efforts.
The discovery was published in the journal Current Biology on Thursday and has prompted increased visitor numbers from within Bolivia and abroad, despite the sanctuary’s efforts to keep the animal out of direct view.