Rusty-spotted cat

The rusty-spotted cat, one of the smallest members of the feline family, is native to India and Sri Lanka, with recent sightings in Nepal. Unfortunately, it is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Originally described as *Felis rubiginosa* in 1831, it was subsequently reclassified under the genus *Prionailurus*. Genetic studies indicate it diverged from its common ancestor between 6.54 and 3.42 million years ago.

This endearing cat is easily identifiable by its short, reddish-grey fur adorned with rusty spots. As the smallest wild cat in Asia, it favors deciduous forests, scrublands, grasslands, rocky areas, and areas with dense vegetation. It inhabits various regions across India and Sri Lanka, and now, Nepal as well.

There is limited knowledge about the rusty-spotted cat's behavior in the wild, but it is known to primarily prey on rodents and birds. Regarding reproduction, these cats have brief mating periods, and females give birth to one or two kittens after a gestation period of 65-70 days.

Regrettably, the rusty-spotted cat faces numerous threats, including habitat loss due to agriculture, hunting, and illegal trade. In efforts to protect them, they are listed under CITES, with hunting and trade prohibited in India and Sri Lanka. Their population in captivity is also closely monitored by various institutions.