New species of wild cat discovered for first time in more than a century

Scientists have identified a new wild cat species living in Bolivia's cloud forests, the first such discovery in over a century. Locals know the elusive creature as Tilcayo, a member of the tiger cat family which includes South American felines. Researchers named the new species Leopardus tilcayo, keeping its traditional name. Found in the Yungas forest—a mountainous region with dense vegetation, frequent clouds, and high humidity—Tilcayo measures around 18 inches long and weighs about three pounds.

Genetic testing confirmed it as a distinct species, with its fur displaying light-brown tones and irregular rosettes. Little is known about its behavior or biology, but scat samples suggest small rodents might form part of its diet. The animal is more active at night, as indicated by camera-trap records. Tiger cats, considered cryptic species, are difficult to distinguish by appearance alone, with previous studies suggesting they could contain several separate species.

Genetic analysis identified five distinct tiger cat species, including the newly discovered Tilcayo. Its lineage separated from other tiger cats around 1.4 million years ago, a significant divide that generally indicates species distinction. Researchers have only found two living Tilcayos and a few camera-trap records, with one living cat currently at a wildlife sanctuary.

The Yungas forest, the cat's habitat, faces threats from deforestation, agricultural expansion, fires, and mining. A separate discovery in Peru's Yungas led to the description of a new tiger cat subspecies, named Leopardus tigrinus antisuyo, after the Antisuyu region of the Inca Empire. Tiger cats are currently listed as vulnerable species by the IUCN, and separate assessments could better highlight the threats facing each group.