A very rare event occurred in the forest of Nagaland closest to the Indo-Myanmar border recently. A medium-size clouded leopard that falls under the vulnerable category of wild cat species under the IUCN was spotted. Its occurrence has surprised the experts as these tree-climbing leopards are usually found in low elevation areas.
via:indiatoday
A non-profit organization WPSI that works for wildlife protection captured the rare clouded leopard in their camera. It was spotted in the forest located at the height of 3,700m in Nagaland’s Thanamir village.
Earlier, these vulnerable species of wild cats were seen in Sikkim, Bhutan, and Nepal at the elevation of 3,720, 3600, and 3,498 m respectively. Their occurrence at high altitudes indicates that they are capable to survive in such habitats as well.
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Researchers Claim There Are Many More Clouded Leopard In The Forest
via:gannett
The researchers were doing a combined study with the locals to understand the bio-cultural diversity of that area. Around 50 cameras were installed at the different areas of the forest to record this rare species.
It took around 2 years for the researchers to spot the clouded leopard. However, this one is not the only wild cat recorded. According to researchers, there are two adults living with 2 cubs in the forest. This is a significant event due to many reasons, first, these are vulnerable species, and second, they appear usually in tropical rainforests.
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These wild cats are known for their climbing ability but they reside majorly on the ground for food. Deer, pigs, birds, and other small animals are their prey.