Scientists Identify New Cat Species in Bolivia After a Century

Scientists have identified a new species of wild cat in Bolivia, marking the first such discovery in over a century. DNA from 38 wild cats was analyzed, revealing one that had not been recognized before, according to experts involved in the research.

The discovery emerged from a detailed genetic study of wild cats in Bolivia. Experts noted that the characteristics of this new species did not match descriptions based on Brazilian cats, raising questions about the true identity of the so-called 'tiger cat' in Bolivia. One expert said, "We never expected this Bolivian tiger cat to be a separate species, and no one had ever proposed it as a different animal, subspecies or otherwise." This finding challenges previous assumptions and highlights the need for further research into the region's feline biodiversity.