Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

New Cat Species, the Tilcayo, Identified in Bolivian Cloud Forest

Scientists have identified a new species of wild cat, the tilcayo, in the Bolivian Yungas. This marks the first new feline species discovery in over a century.

The tilcayo is a small feline, weighing three to four pounds, with distinctive rosettes on its light brown fur. Its discovery highlights the ongoing mysteries within the natural world.

The creature was first brought to the Senda Verde Wildlife Sanctuary after a local resident found it and initially mistook it for a domestic kitten. Researchers noted its unique physical characteristics, which didn't align with known species like the northern tiger cat.

Genetic testing confirmed the animal was a distinct species, named L. tilcayo, after the local name for the cat. Researchers aim to preserve this traditional knowledge associated with the name.

Little is known about the tilcayo's diet, lifestyle, or population size due to their elusive nature. Scat samples suggest they may eat small rodents, and camera footage indicates they could be nocturnal.

Genetic analysis indicates L. tilcayo diverged from other tiger cats about 1.4 million years ago, likely due to habitat fragmentation caused by climate fluctuations during the Early Pleistocene.

With this addition, there are now five recognized species of tiger cat. The discovery has significant conservation implications, as previously widespread populations are now recognized as distinct species, potentially requiring increased protection efforts against threats like deforestation and habitat fragmentation.

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