Scientists have identified a new species of cat, the first such discovery in over a century, raising questions about feline evolution.

What it means

Scientists have identified a new living wild cat species, the tilcayo (Leopardus tilcayo), a small spotted cat from Bolivia's Yungas cloud forests, based on genetic testing of two individuals. It is described as the first new living cat species named in over 100 years, and the discovery raises questions about feline evolution and how many similar hidden species may exist. The finding was published in the journal Current Biology.

Accuracy & sourcesGrounded

The claim is solid as reported: the underlying primary source is a peer-reviewed study in Current Biology, and multiple outlets (Mongabay, Science News, PBS) consistently describe genetic testing of two Bolivian tiger cats. The 'first in 100 years' framing is accurate specifically for a newly described living wild cat species, though it does not mean no other cat species have been described in that time under other taxonomic definitions.

How new

Genuinely new: the discovery was published and reported in September 2026, within the current publication window of September 24–25, 2026.

Past coverage