New Wild Cat Species Discovered in Bolivia After Century

A diminutive wild cat species, known locally as the Tilcayo, has been identified in Bolivia's Yungas cloud forest, marking the first formal description of a new living cat species in over a century. This small feline, weighing approximately 3 lbs (1.4 kg) and measuring about 18 inches (46 cm) long, is smaller than the average domestic cat.

The discovery highlights the ongoing potential for uncovering new biodiversity, even in well-explored regions. The Tilcayo belongs to the group of tiger cats found throughout South America, and its identification underscores the importance of continued field research and genetic analysis in understanding and protecting the planet's diverse wildlife.