Profile by Phil Crosby

Leopard cat

Prionailurus bengalensis

Several Leopard cats have been killed in the UK

Although considerably smaller than their namesakes, leopard cats are equally secretive and elusive. There have been several reported incidences of Leopard Cats being killed across Scotland & England: in 1988 in Jedburgh, and again in 1989 in Berwick, as well as Devon and the Isle of Wight in England.

Life span
Leopard cats live for 12 - 15 years.

Statistics
Body length: 40 - 100 cm, Tail length: 20-44 cm, Shoulder height: 20-45 cm, Weight: male: 3.3-4 kg, female: 2.5-3 kg.

Physical Description
Their coat colour varies but is usually tawny yellow with a white underside and with black spots (either solid or rosettes) arranged in rows, which may merge to form bands. Leopard cats have a small head and muzzle, with long, rounded ears, and a banded tail.

Distribution
Leopard cats live in Sumatra, Java, Borneo and the Philippines in South East Asia.

Habitat
They prefer to live in forest and scrubland, particularly near water.

Diet
Leopard cats primarily hunt rodents, but will also feed on young deer, hares, lizards, birds, fish and carrion.

Behaviour
Leopard cats are most active at twilight and night, but radio-collared individuals have also been out during the day. They are excellent swimmers and have populated many offshore islands. They are also good climbers and often hunt in the trees. Leopard cats make dens in hollow trees or small caves and the male may help the female rear the young.

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