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Ghimirey, Y.; Thakuri, J.J.; Adhikary, B.; Lama, R.P.; Ghale, T.R.; Sherpa, C.; Shah, K.B.
Possible records of the Asiatic wildcat in Nepal
2019 Cat News (70): 22-24
An individual of cat species having phenotypic appearance of an Asiatic wildcat _Felis lybica ornata_ was photographed in Tanahun district during a bird survey on 3 March 2019 at 14:30 h. The typical features of the Asiatic wildcat were clearly visible, i.e. a spotted coat, horizontal bands on upper part of the leg, medium tail with rings towards the tip and relatively large head. The nearest known population of this felid was reported from Madhya Pradesh in central India, nearly 500 km away. Other records of the suspected species, including photographs, were also obtained in 2013 and 2015 near Kathmandu and in the north-western part of the country, close to the Ngari region of Western Tibet. Our records provide important evidence for the possible occurrence of the Asiatic wildcat in Nepal, and form the basis for a more detailed survey to assess its national status and distribution.
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