Bolivia’s Hidden Feline: New Wild Cat Species Discovered After Centuries

Scientists identify new wild cat species in Bolivia, the first in over a century. Conservation efforts now focus on protecting its habitat.

Editorial Desk

September 19, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — La Paz, Bolivia — A previously unknown wild cat species has been identified in Bolivia, marking the first time in over a century that a new living feline has been formally named and described.

The discovery was made at a wildlife sanctuary in the Yungas region, where a small, spotted feline had been living for years after being taken in by a local family. The animal, now about 10 years old, measures just 18 inches from head to tail and weighs around 3 pounds. Its light brown coat is marked with dark, leopard-like spots.

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Researchers compared genetic material from over 30 cats across South America, revealing that this feline belongs to a previously unrecognized species that diverged from its relatives about 1.4 million years ago. The new species, named Leopardus tilcayo, honors the name used by local communities in Bolivia’s Andes Mountains. Scientists hope the designation will help protect the animal’s forest habitat, which faces threats from deforestation and mining.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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