Prionailurus bengalensis

Leopard Cats are solitary and nocturnal, primarily hunting rodents, birds, and small mammals. They are adept climbers and swimmers, utilizing these skills to forage and escape threats.

In the wild, Leopard Cats breed once or twice a year, with litters usually consisting of two to four kittens. The breeding of Leopard Cats in captivity requires specific permits and adherence to conservation guidelines to protect wild populations.

This species is distinguished by its striking coat, marked with black spots and rosettes on a yellowish to gray background, resembling that of a leopard. They have a slender body, long legs, and a short face with distinctive tear stripes.

Leopard Cats have a long history of interaction with humans, dating back thousands of years in Asia. They have been revered, hunted for their fur, and even hybridized to create domestic cat breeds like the Bengal cat.

The Leopard Cat's conservation status varies regionally but is generally classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, though certain subspecies are at risk due to habitat loss, poaching, and the pet trade. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and legal protection to ensure their survival.