New Wild Cat Species Identified in Bolivia, First in Over a Century
A newly recognized feline species from Bolivia marks what researchers describe as the first new wild cat added to the scientific record in more than 100 years, according to a report by Al Jazeera.
A wild cat species native to Bolivia has been formally added to the list of recognized feline species, according to a report published by Al Jazeera on September 18, 2026. The outlet described the finding as the first new wild cat species identified by science in over a century.
According to the report, the addition represents a rare development in the study of felids, a family of animals that has been extensively studied for well over 100 years, making new species discoveries within the group uncommon.
The report did not provide further scientific details, including the formal name of the species, the research team responsible for the identification, or the specific methods used to distinguish it from previously known wild cats in the region.
Al Jazeera's report framed the discovery within the broader context of ongoing efforts to catalog global biodiversity, noting that new species identifications, particularly among larger and more well-known animal groups such as cats, are increasingly rare given the extent of prior research.
Bolivia is home to a range of wild feline species, including jaguars, pumas and ocelots, as part of its broader biodiversity in the Andean and Amazonian regions of South America.
Further scientific documentation of the new species, including peer-reviewed publication details, was not specified in the available report.
Sources
- New Bolivian cat claws its way into species list: What we meow — Al Jazeera — All
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
Related articles
New Wild Cat Species Identified in Bolivia's Cloud Forest
Researchers say the small feline, known locally as the tilcayo, is the first new living cat species to be formally described in more than a century.
New Tiger Cat Species Identified in Bolivia, First in Over a Century
Researchers have named Leopardus tilcayo, described as the first new living cat species to be identified and named in more than 100 years, according to Al Jazeera.
New Wild Cat Species Identified in Bolivia, With Only One Known Living Member
Scientists say a spotted wildcat previously mistaken for related species has been confirmed as a distinct new species, according to a report by BBC Science & Environment.
New Living Cat Species Identified for First Time in Over a Century
Al Jazeera reports scientists have identified a new species of living cat, the first such discovery in more than 100 years.
Scientific American Reports Discovery of First New Cat Species in Over a Century
The newly identified wild cat is smaller than a typical house cat and features leopard-like spots, according to the report.
Poison suspected in deaths of ten lions at Tanzania game reserve
The lions were discovered dead in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, prompting wildlife officials to investigate.
Comments
Loading comments…