Scientists identify the first new living wild cat species in more than a century
A three-pound Bolivian cloud-forest cat turned out to be a species science had never formally recognized.
A tiny spotted wild cat from Bolivia's Yungas cloud forest has been formally described as Leopardus tilcayo, the first newly named living cat species in more than a century. Genetic work showed it is distinct from other South American tiger cats; one known animal had even once been mistaken for a domestic cat.
Why it matters
Recognizing a species is not just naming trivia: conservation plans depend on knowing what actually exists and where. The Yungas are under pressure from deforestation, farming, fire and mining.
How much agreement is there?
Broad agreement. Scientists agree the genetic evidence supports recognizing a distinct species. The uncertainty is mainly about how many tilcayos remain and how threatened they are.
Could someone help?
Support cloud-forest conservation groups, responsible wildlife sanctuaries, or citizen-science biodiversity projects. Protecting habitat matters more than trying to see or handle the animal.
Published: September 17 and September 21, 2026.