A tiny spotted cat from Bolivia’s Yungas forest has changed what scientists thought they knew about South America’s tiger cats. Named Leopardus tilcayo, this newly recognized species is believed to be the first new living feline species formally described in more than a century. With its secretive life, limited known population, and habitat threatened by deforestation, the tilcayo’s discovery also raises important questions about what else may still be hiding in the wild.

Panthera is the leading organization protecting all 40 wild cat species and their habitats. Founded in 2006 by Dr. Alan Rabinowitz and Dr. Thomas S. Kaplan, it runs science-based programs for tigers, lions, jaguars, and many smaller cats across more than 30 countries. Key efforts include Tigers Forever and the Jaguar Corridor Initiative. Results show population gains in priority landscapes through anti-poaching, community work, and habitat protection.