Once-in-a-century discovery: the new cat that breaks a long-held scientific perception

Researchers in Bolivia have identified a new species of wild cat, the 'Tilcayo', in what is defined as the first discovery of its kind in over a hundred years. The tiny cat, weighing about 1.4 kg, was found in the mountainous cloud forests. DNA tests revealed that its lineage diverged from other cats, and that the 'tiger cat' group includes five separate species rather than one.

Researchers have identified and described for the first time a new species of wild cat in Bolivia, locally known as the 'Tilcayo' (Leopardus tilcayo). This is the first time in over a hundred years that a new species of living cat has been defined. The findings were published in the journal Current Biology. The cat, a tiny predator weighing about 1.4 kg and measuring about 46 cm in length, was discovered in the mountainous Yungas forests. Researcher Paola Nogales-Escrones described its brown fur with rosette spots. The study analyzed DNA samples from 38 cats and revealed that the 'tiger cat' group includes five separate species. Researcher Jonas Lescort noted that the information is based on two living specimens and photographs. A new subspecies was also described in Peru.