| Clouded Leopard Neofelis nebulosa |
The marbled cat and clouded leopard are similar and may be closely related species. Both have coats with large blotchy spots with dark margins. They both climb well and live in the forests of Southeast Asia. They differ most in size, with the marbled cat being much smaller and not much bigger than a house cat.
Because of its larger size and impressive teeth, the clouded leopard is hunted more often than its smaller relative. In Asian markets, the teeth and pelts are sold for decoration and the bones are sold for traditional medicines. Clouded leopard has even appeared on the menu of restaurants in Thailand and China that serve wealthy tourists.
Size: females and males 11-20 kg (24-44 lbs).
Habitat: Rainforest, dry tropical forest, and mangrove swamps.
Primary prey: Birds, primates, small mammals.
Conservation Status: Vulnerable.
Principal threats: Loss of habitat due to deforestation; illegal hunting.
Distribution: From Nepal east to China and south to southeastern Asia, including the islands of Sumatra and Borneo.
Notable Features: Little is known of the habits of this elusive forest cat. It is an excellent climber with short powerful limbs and a long tail. The Lukai people of Thailand believe that the clouded leopard is their spiritual ancestor who led them to their homeland.
| Clouded Leopard |
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