New wild cat species is identified for first time in 100 years, researchers say, tell me about this news in (https://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/new-wild-cat-species-identified-rcna598113)

Scientists have formally described a new wild cat species for the first time in over a century: Leopardus tilcayo (commonly called the Tilcayo cat).

• Where it lives: The species is native to the cloud forests of the Bolivian Yungas, an ecologically rich and under-studied transitional zone between the Andes and the Amazon basin.

• Physical characteristics: It is smaller than an average domestic cat, measuring around 17 to 20 inches (42.5 to 50.5 cm) in body length and weighing roughly 3 pounds (1.3 kg). It has larger rosette markings, a more slender, longer tail, and a more muted coat tone compared to other tiger cats.

• Genetic distinction: Previously grouped with northern tiger cats (Leopardus tigrinus or oncillas), comprehensive genetic analysis revealed that Leopardus tilcayo diverged from related lineages approximately 1.4 million years ago, making it a completely distinct evolutionary lineage.

• Origin of the name: The specific epithet tilcayo honors the traditional name local communities in Bolivia have long used for the animal.

• Conservation and status: Known from very few physical recordsincluding an individual rescued and cared for at the Senda Verde Animal Refuge in Boliviathe species faces significant threats from habitat loss, agricultural expansion, and mining in the cloud forest biome.