The fishing cat is an endangered small wild cat that inhabits the wetlands of the southern regions of Asia. The primary cause of the fishing cat’s declining population is habitat loss.

Scientific Name: Prionailurus viverrinus

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

The fishing cat is the largest member of the Prionailurus genus, a group of small wild cats that can be found in Asia and include the leopard cat, Sunda leopard cat, flat-headed cat, and rusty-spotted cat.

More About the Fishing Cat

Physical Appearance

Fishing cats are approximately twice the size of a domestic cat. They have a stocky build with short legs.

The fishing cat has grey fur with stripes on the shoulders, spots on the cats flanks and sides, and a white underside. The cat’s ears are round and short with a white spot on the back. The face has two stripes on the cheeks, and four stripes that run above the eyes to the shoulder.

Fishing Cat FROM TO
Weight 11 lbs. 35 lbs.
Body Length 22 in. 31 in.
Tail 7.9 in. 11.8 in

 

fishing cat in the jungleHabitat (Where the Fishing Cat Lives)

The fishing cat primarily inhabits wetlands likes swamps and marshes, and can be found around lakes, creeks and mangrove forests. It is mostly found in India and Nepal (Himalayan foothills), Thailand and Java, with some sightings in Cambodia.

Hunting & Prey (Diet)

Fishing cats can swim great distances, including underwater. They have been seen hunting in and around water. Their primary prey is fish. Their diet also consists of rodents, birds, insects, molluscs (marine organisms), and reptiles.

Reproduction & Lifespan

Mating typically occurs between January and February. Pregnancy lasts from 63 to 70 days. Litters consist of two to three kitten. The kittens start playing in the water after a few months. Fishing cats reach adult size at around 8 1/2 months, and are sexually mature at 15 months. Their lifespan is up to 10 years in captivity.

Conservation Threats

The destruction of wetlands is a primary threat for the fishing cat. Human-animal conflict, including retaliatory killing, has also been a major problem.

 

 


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