Bolivia confirms new wild cat species after century
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Scientists in Bolivia confirmed the discovery of a new wild feline species, Leopardus tilcayo, in the cloud forests of the Yungas region of La Paz.
The team identified the tilcayo, a name already used by local communities, through genomic studies showing it differs from other South American tiger cats. The animal resembles a domestic cat in size, with a brown spotted coat, rounded ears, and a bushy tail.
Researchers first made the discovery in September, publishing their findings in Current Biology. Biologist Enzo Aliaga warned that the new species faces threats including habitat loss from gold mining and agriculture, as well as capture for the pet trade. Aliaga noted that people seeking young tilcayos may kill the mothers, and the captured offspring often die in captivity due to poor care. Experts currently do not know the total population or full distribution of the tilcayo within the Yungas forests.
They are advocating for more research to understand the species’ habits, reproductive patterns, and to improve habitat protection. This identification marks the first new wild cat species described in over a century.
