# New wild cat species discovered in Bolivia DNA analysis reveals a previously unknown feline species hiding in plain sight - **Source:** [BBC News](https://brifing.si/source/647b890e-c85e-45b8-9588-ccfecdec4a99) - **Published:** 2026-09-17 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c15607d8-0b1e-4b3b-9cd1-7143f42e43f8 ## A hidden feline revealed Scientists have confirmed a new wild cat species in Bolivia's forests, initially mistaken for other spotted felines. The cat, about domestic cat size, was identified through DNA studies showing it's genetically distinct. Only one living specimen is confirmed - a 10-year-old nicknamed Tigrino in a wildlife sanctuary. This discovery highlights how much remains unknown about Earth's elusive mammals, particularly in less-studied regions like South America's dense forests. ## The accidental discovery Bolivian scientist Dr. Nogales-Ascarrunz first noticed the unusual cat while volunteering at a sanctuary. Originally thought to be a domestic kitten, its wild behavior became apparent as it grew. The discovery prompted investigation into other reported sightings in Bolivia's Yungas region. Researchers then collaborated internationally to study tiger cat genetics using both living animals and museum specimens, revealing this was an entirely new species. ## Taxonomic challenges Tiger cats have been particularly difficult to classify due to their similar appearances across Central and South America. The study published in Current Biology suggests there may be five tiger cat species rather than three. Few museum specimens and records exist, making traditional identification methods inadequate. Genetic analysis has become crucial for distinguishing between these visually similar but genetically distinct felines. ## Conservation implications The discovery has significant conservation implications, as species can't be protected without proper identification. Tiger cats face threats from deforestation, habitat loss, and hunting, yet the new species was missing from previous vulnerability assessments. Researchers emphasize that even small, cat-sized mammals in accessible regions remain poorly documented, showing gaps in our biodiversity knowledge. ## Broader feline family impact This finding expands the known Felidae family from 41 to potentially 44-45 species. It challenges previous assumptions about wild cat classification, particularly for South America's small spotted felines. Experts describe tiger cats as a 'taxonomic nightmare' due to their visual similarities. The discovery suggests more feline species may await identification through genetic analysis in understudied regions. ## Research methodology The international team used advanced DNA analysis of both living specimens and historical museum samples. This approach was necessary given the lack of preserved specimens and photographic records. The study combined field observations from Bolivia with genetic sequencing expertise from researchers in Brazil and elsewhere. This multidisciplinary approach proved essential for distinguishing between visually similar species. ## Unique characteristics While similar in appearance to other tiger cats, the new species (Leopardus tilcayo) shows distinct genetic markers. Its discovery in Bolivia's Yungas region suggests possible geographic isolation contributing to speciation. Unlike its relatives found across Central and South America, this species appears to have a more limited range, making it particularly vulnerable to habitat changes in its forest ecosystem. ## Future research directions Scientists plan further studies to locate additional members of this species in the wild. The discovery underscores the need for more biodiversity surveys in South America's forests. Researchers also aim to assess the new species' population size and conservation status. This finding may prompt re-evaluation of other presumed single species that could actually be multiple distinct ones. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c6x2zgv9rr4ro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._