Bolivia Scientists Discover New Wild Cat Species: Leopardus tilakayo

In the South American country of Bolivia, scientists have identified a new wild cat species. This discovery is the first example of formal naming and description of a new living cat species in more than a century. The local community calls it Tilakayo. Scientists have named it Leopardus tilakayo. This cat was found in the mountain cloud forests of Bolivia called Yungas. These forests are often covered with clouds and have high humidity. The body of Tilakayo is about 46 centimeters long and weighs about 1. 4 kilograms. It is smaller than the average domestic cat. Its skin is light brown and irregularly shaped rosettes are spread all over its body. Researchers say that there is little information about its biology and lifestyle right now. Fecal samples have been found with the remains of small animals, which suggests that they may be part of its diet. According to the evidence from camera traps, it is more active at night. Based on the discovery, scientists have found only the first confirmation of a new species called tiger cats. This is not the first time that a large group of cats has been found in South America.