Researchers have identified a previously unknown wild cat species in Bolivia’s Yungas cloud forest. Known locally as the tilcayo, the small cat measures around 46 cm and weighs just 1.4 kg, making it smaller than an average domestic cat. Its scientific name is Leopardus tilcayo.
Genetic analysis of 38 cats from across South America revealed that what were previously considered tiger cats are actually five genetically distinct species. The tilcayo lineage is estimated to have separated from other tiger cats around 1.4 million years ago.
Little is currently known about its behaviour. Camera traps suggest it may be mainly nocturnal, while remains found in scat indicate that small rodents could be part of its diet.
The discovery also has important conservation implications. The Yungas forests are under growing pressure from deforestation, agriculture, fires and mining. Researchers hope that recognising the five species separately will provide a clearer picture of their individual conservation status and help protect species that may be at greater risk than previously thought.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/sep/17/new-cat-species-identified-bolivia
