Leopardus tilcayo identified as new cat species in Bolivia

Researchers have identified a new species of cat, Leopardus tilcayo, marking the first new feline species described and named in over 100 years. The discovery was made in Bolivia.

The identification process began in 2016 when biologist Paola Nogales-Ascarrunz was alerted to a “rare cat” at the Senda Verde sanctuary. While initially thought to be a tigrillo, closer inspection of photographic evidence in 2019 revealed that the animal's rosettes were too large to match existing descriptions.

The new species is small, measuring approximately 46 centimeters in length and weighing about 1.4 kg. It features light brown fur with irregular rosettes across its body. Preliminary biological data suggests the cat is likely nocturnal and feeds on small rodents.