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First new cat species discovered in over a century

Published : Friday, 18 September, 2026 at 12:15 PM

Observer Online Report

Collected Photo

Researchers have identified a new species of small wild cat in Bolivia, marking the first new felid discovery in more than a century.

A study published in Current Biology confirmed that the newly identified feline, named Leopardus tilcayo, represents a completely distinct species native to the Yungas forest region on the eastern slope of the Bolivian Andes. Bolivian biologist Paola Nogales-Ascarrunz first encountered the animal in 2016 at a local wildlife sanctuary after a resident rescued it as a stray kitten.

Image courtesy: National Geographic

Genetic analysis conducted alongside international researchers revealed that L. tilcayo diverged from other tiger cat species approximately 1.4 million years ago. Scientists previously classified the specimen under existing tiger cat varieties before full genomic sequencing established its unique evolutionary line.

The discovery expands the known tiger cat complex to five distinct species and alters the broader understanding of the genus Leopardus. Conservation experts stated that dividing previously widespread feline populations into distinct, localized species will require updated risk assessments and urgent protection measures across South America.

-SA

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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury

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