A team of researchers led by Brazilian scientist Eduardo Eizirik, a professor at the School of Health and Life Sciences of the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), has discovered a new species of wild cat in the forests of Bolivia. Named Leopardus tilcayo, the small feline is approximately the size of a domestic cat, and scientists believe that other individuals of the species may also exist.
The newly identified species measures between 425 and 505 millimetres from head to body, while its tail ranges from 250 to 265 millimetres. The animal inhabits forested areas of Bolivia and belongs to the Leopardus genus of small wild cats, reports
Metrópoles, a partner of TV BRICS.
The discovery marks the first identification of a new wild feline species in more than a century. Researchers used genetic analysis to distinguish Leopardus tilcayo from other closely related species and establish its distinct evolutionary lineage.
The scientists highlighted the importance of identifying individual wild cat species and subspecies for biodiversity research and conservation planning. According to the study, each distinct taxon should be assessed separately to develop appropriate measures for its protection.
The research provides new information about the diversity of wild cats in South America and expands scientific knowledge of the region’s wildlife. The findings could also support the development of conservation strategies tailored to individual species.