Mysterious Bolivian 'weird cat' recognized as new species, marking first discovered in over century

Scientists have identified a new species of wild cat, Leopardus tilcayo, in Bolivia's Yungas cloud forests, marking the first new living feline species described in over a century. The discovery began in 2016 when biologist Paola Nogales-Ascarrunz investigated an "unusual cat" at a wildlife sanctuary, initially mistaken for a domestic cat. Genetic analysis of 38 Leopardus genus animals revealed its lineage diverged approximately 1.4 million years ago from related tiger cats, with its larger rosettes distinguishing it. The species is named tilcayo, a traditional local name, and its recognition has significant conservation implications, as previously widespread populations may now be considered independent species with limited habitats. Nogales-Ascarrunz emphasized that "Even in the cats, there are things out there that are undescribed."