Asian golden cat

The Asian golden cat, also known as Temminck's cat or the Asiatic golden cat, is a medium-sized wild feline indigenous to the northeastern Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and southern China. Sadly, this magnificent animal is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List due to relentless hunting and habitat degradation. Its scientific name, Felis temminckii, honors the Dutch zoologist Coenraad Jacob Temminck. Two recognized subspecies are identified: C. t. temminckii and C. t. moormensis.

The coloration of the Asian golden cat varies, ranging from golden to black, depending on its habitat. This medium-sized feline favors forested areas and can be found from eastern Nepal to Sumatra. Unfortunately, its survival is imperiled by habitat destruction, poaching driven by the illegal wildlife trade, and a decreasing prey population.

These cats are solitary and territorial, typically active during dawn and dusk. They exhibit excellent climbing skills and hunt a diverse array of prey, including birds, rodents, and small deer. While little is known about their reproductive behavior in the wild, observations of captive cats have provided some understanding of their breeding habits.

To protect the Asian golden cat, it is listed under CITES Appendix I, which restricts international trade, and various countries have enacted hunting regulations. Additionally, European zoos have established breeding programs to aid in the species' conservation. The cat is also known by different names in regions such as China and Thailand, where it often appears in local folklore and legends.