22/09/2026
A New Wild Cat Species Has Been Identified After More Than 100 Years
Scientists have described Leopardus tilcayo, a previously unrecognized wild cat from Bolivia’s Yungas cloud forests—the first new living cat species formally described in more than a century.
Weighing only around 1.4 kg (3 lbs) and measuring about 46 cm, the Tilcayo is smaller than an average domestic cat. Its muted brown coat and distinctive, large irregular rosettes helped distinguish it from related tiger cats.
The discovery came through genetic analysis of 38 tiger-cat specimens, revealing that what was once considered one widespread species actually represents five distinct species. Researchers estimate that L. tilcayo diverged from its relatives around 1.4 million years ago.
The species was named “Tilcayo,” the name used by local communities, recognizing traditional knowledge of the animal. National Geographic Explorer and Bolivian biologist Paola Nogales Ascarrunz was part of the research team that led the identification.
Only one living Tilcayo is currently known to be in protective care. Scientists are now using camera traps and field surveys to determine whether more individuals survive in the wild and to better understand the species’ distribution and conservation needs.
A remarkable reminder that even in the 21st century, there are still wild species hiding in ecosystems we have yet to fully understand.
📸 Fernando Faciole / National Geographic
