# New Cat Species Discovered After 100 Years

> Scientists identify Bolivia's first new cat species in 100 years.
- Title: New Cat Species Discovered After 100 Years · Mashable
- Summary: Scientists identify Bolivia's first new cat species in 100 years. A new cat species, Leopardus tilcayo, was discovered in Bolivia after 100 years with unique…
- Keywords: leopardus tilcayo, b bolivia, yungas region, tilcayo, senda verde wildlife sanctuary, leopardus tigrinus, oncilla, technology, culture, Cat, Species, Discovered
- Source: Mashable — https://mashable.com/science/new-tiger-cat-species-discovered
- Author: Amanda Yeo
- Published: 2026-09-18T14:20:30+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: leopardus tilcayo, b bolivia, yungas region, tilcayo, senda verde wildlife sanctuary, leopardus tigrinus, oncilla, technology, culture
## New Cat Species
Scientists identified a new cat species for the first time in 100 years.
## Bolivia Discovery
The Leopardus tilcayo was found in Bolivia's Yungas region.
## Unique Markings
It has dark brown to black rosettes on light brown fur.
## Size Details
Measures 425 to 505mm head to body, with a 250 to 265mm tail.
## Local Name
Locals in Bolivia called it 'tilcayo' since their grandfathers.
## Species Confirmed
DNA testing proved it is a new species, not an oncilla.
## Key takeaway

A new cat species, Leopardus tilcayo, was discovered in Bolivia after 100 years with unique markings and small size.