The veterinarian named the main threat to a new species of wild cats from Bolivia.

In Bolivia, scientists have described a new species of wildcat, Leopardus tilcayo, or tilcayo tiger cat, which lives in the Yungas forests on the eastern slopes of the Andes. This is the first officially described new species of modern feline in more than 100 years. Veterinarian Elena Frolenko told "Izvestia" on September 18 about what is unique about the animal and what threats may arise after its discovery.

According to the expert, the features of the new species cannot be explained solely by genetic differences. Scientists will also have to study animal behavior, diet, breeding habits, and habitat requirements.

"Any new species is unique not only in its genetic component, but also in its behavioral reactions, food preferences, sexual behavior, and, as a result, reproduction, and territorial needs," Frolenko said.

At the same time, according to the veterinarian, it is not yet possible to accurately determine all the external signs that will distinguish tilkayo from other representatives of small felines. Tiger cats belong to cryptic species — animals that may have a similar appearance, but at the same time differ significantly at the genetic level. Scientists have yet to find out the features of the coat's color and pattern, body size and proportions, the structure of the skull and teeth, vocal signals, behavior, diet, and reproduction characteristics of the new species.

Frolenko does not recommend keeping tilkayo as a pet. According to her, wild animals should remain in their natural environment or be under the control of specialized organizations involved in their conservation.

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"Strictly speaking, I do not recommend keeping any wild animals in captivity, except in some reserves, sanctuaries, where the habitat is simply improved - for example, fertilizing is offered, treatments for parasites are carried out, vaccinations are carried out," the veterinarian emphasized.

According to the expert, one of the main threats to the new population may be increased attention from people after the publication of information about the discovery. Humans, Frolenko noted, remain one of the main risk factors for rare species due to habitat changes, illegal trapping and hunting.

She also did not rule out that rare animals may be illegally captured, transported and sold as unusual pets. At the same time, scientists have yet to determine the number of tilkayo populations, the area of its range, nutrition and reproduction characteristics. According to Frolenko, it is these data that will help assess the vulnerability of the new species and develop measures for its conservation.

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National Geographic magazine reported on September 17 that a previously unknown species of wildcat had been found in Bolivia — it was given the name Leopardus tilcayo, or tilcayo tiger cat. The animal is distinguished by spots forming a leopard pattern, as well as the rounded shape of the ears — such a detail is not found in other small cats living in this region.