In Bolivia’s cloud forest, a tiny wild cat has been recognized as a new species, marking the first formal naming of a living cat species in over a hundred years. Known locally as Tilcayo, this cat belongs to the tiger cat group found throughout South America. Discovered in Bolivia’s Yungas forest, the cat, measuring around 46 centimeters in length and weighing about three pounds, is smaller than an average domestic cat.

Through genetic analysis, researchers confirmed the cat as a new species and named it Leopardus tilcayo, retaining its local name. Describing the cat’s appearance, National Geographic explorer Paola Nogales Ascarrunz mentioned its light brown fur with irregular rosettes on its body.

Not much is known about the cat’s biology and habits, but evidence suggests it may feed on small rodents and be more active at night. Tiger cats, like Tilcayo, are considered cryptic species that are difficult to differentiate based on appearance alone.

The research team found only two live individuals of this new species, with one now living in Senda Verde Wildlife Sanctuary in Bolivia. The team’s genetic analysis of tiger cats revealed five genetically distinct species, challenging previous assumptions of a single species.

The study also unveiled a new tiger cat subspecies in Peru’s Yungas, named Leopardus tigrinus antisuyo. The International Union for Conservation of Nature is reviewing the species status, potentially listing some, like Tilcayo, as endangered due to declining populations.

The Yungas region, where these cats are found, faces threats from deforestation, fires, and mining, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts. The discovery of new species like Tilcayo underscores the importance of protecting biodiversity and habitats from various threats.