In an extraordinary finding, scientists have uncovered a new species of wild cat for the first time in over a century. This discovery was announced by Bolivian researcher Paola Nogales-Ascarrunz to AFP. The species, known as the Tilcayo tiger cat, has been identified in Bolivia’s mountainous Yungas region near La Paz.
The Tilcayo tiger cat, with its distinctive spotted and leopard-like coat, was initially mistaken for a common house cat by locals. The name ’tilcayo,’ assigned by locals, inspired the scientific designation Leopardus tilcayo.
Biologist and National Geographic explorer, Paola Nogales-Ascarrunz, praised this discovery as an exceptional event, highlighting that no new wild cat species had been described in the past hundred years. The last feline discovery was the Uruguayan pampas cat in 1923. The newly found tilcayo is slightly smaller than a domestic cat, measuring about 18 inches and distinguished by its rounded ears.
The research team conducted whole genome sequencing on a pair of tilcayos, marking a significant step in understanding the species’ genetic structure. This extensive genetic testing provided deeper insights into the cat’s characteristics and its potential conservation needs.
At present, a male tilcayo resides at an animal shelter in the Yungas after its retrieval from a family. A rescued female, initially attacked by locals, has been released back into the wild. The detailed research behind this discovery has been published in the journal Current Biology, concluding studies initiated in 2021.
While currently only found in Bolivia, these creatures are classified as vulnerable to extinction. The limited number of sightings suggests an increased risk of becoming endangered. Nogales-Ascarrunz expressed concern over their vulnerability and advocated for measures to protect this unique species.