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New Cat Species Discovered in Bolivia

Scientists have identified Leopardus tilcayo, a new species of tiger cat, marking the first new living cat species described in over a century. The discovery was made in the Yungas forests of Bolivia.

Leopardus tilcayo, a small cat weighing about two kilograms, has a slender body, spotted fur, and a ringed tail. It is the first new living cat species described since the Uruguayan pampas cat in 1923.

Researchers, initially aiming to clarify the number of existing tiger cat species, analyzed the genetics of 38 Leopardus genus species. They expected to find a few tiger cat species but instead identified five, including the previously undescribed L. tilcayo.

The new species is based on two specimens: a female released back into the wild and a male named Tigrino, who resides at a sanctuary. A conservationist noticed Tigrino's distinct appearance, leading to genetic testing and collaboration with researchers.

This discovery highlights that genetic diversity can exist even within well-studied animal groups like cats.

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