Bolivia Scientists Unveil First New Cat Species in Over a Century

Scientists have identified Leopardus tilcayo, the first new wildcat species discovered in more than 100 years. The small feline, roughly the size of a domestic cat and covered in leopard-like spots, was found by locals near Bolivia's Andean forests but initially mistaken for a house pet before being rescued to Senda Verde sanctuary.

Paola Nogales-Ascarrunz, lead researcher on the Bolivian Felids Research Program, recognized its distinct features including short ears and unusual facial structure after photographing it extensively. DNA analysis confirmed that despite shared characteristics with other tiger cats across Central and South America, this individual represented a completely new species rather than a previously known subspecies.

Currently, only one living member of the Leopardus tilcayo has been documented: Tigrino, now ten years old at the sanctuary. Researchers believe additional members exist in remote areas but remain undiscovered due to the animal's elusive nature and similarity to other spotted wildcats. This finding underscores significant gaps in knowledge regarding South American mammals.

The discovery aims to increase conservation awareness for tiger cats, a group often overlooked compared to larger felines like lions or leopards.