Bolivia discovery: New wild cat species identified in Yungas forests

An international team of researchers has identified a new species of wild cat, Leopardus tilcayo, in the cloud forests of the Yungas region in Bolivia. This discovery marks the first new feline species identified in over a century.

Commonly known locally as the tilcayo, the small felid weighs approximately 1.4 kilograms and is characterized by light brown fur with irregular dark rosettes. The identification was made possible through DNA analysis of historical specimens and living samples, which revealed that the South American tiger cat group actually comprises at least five distinct species.

Scientists are now working to determine the total population size and habitat requirements for the species. Researchers have noted that the tilcayo faces significant threats from habitat loss due to deforestation, illegal mining, and agricultural expansion in the Yungas region.