Full Breakdown
First New Felid Species Identified in Over a Century
By Drooid · · How we work
Discovery Overview
A team of researchers announced the identification of a previously unknown cat species, *Leopardus tilcayo*, marking the first new felid discovery in more than 100 years. The finding was detailed in a study published in *Current Biology*. The cat, initially thought to belong to the already-described species *Leopardus tigrinus* (commonly called oncilla or little spotted cat), proved genetically distinct and warranted recognition as a separate species.
Field Observations and Genetic Confirmation
National Geographic explorer Paola Nogales-Ascarrunz first photographed the animal nearly a decade ago while documenting Bolivia’s cat fauna. In 2019, while preparing a booklet on regional species, she noted that the cat’s rosette patterns were markedly larger than those of neighboring Brazilian populations, prompting doubts about its identification. Several years later, after acquiring advanced genetic analysis skills, Nogales-Ascarrunz collaborated with geneticist Eduardo Eizirik of the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul and co-lead author Jonas Lescroart of the University of Antwerp. Their genomic work placed the specimen on a distinct branch of the cat family tree, justifying its classification as a new species.
Contributors and Local Naming
The research team proposes the name *Leopardus tilcayo* in honor of the term used by local communities. Nogales-Ascarrunz, who is Bolivian, reported that the name “tilcayo” was passed down from her grandfather, reflecting indigenous familiarity with the animal even though its scientific status was previously unknown.
Scientific and Conservation Implications
The discovery underscores the value of integrating field observations with modern genetic techniques to reveal hidden biodiversity. It also highlights that even well-studied groups like felids can still harbor undocumented species, reinforcing the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts in understudied habitats across Central and South America.