Nature
17:50, 10-Nov-2018
Leopard cat spotted on east China's coast
Updated
17:25, 13-Nov-2018
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A leopard cat was caught on an infrared camera in Dafeng district of Yancheng city, in east China's Jiangsu Province, when a research team of Nanjing University conducted a survey of mammals in October.
A leopard cat on the tree. /CCTV Photo
A leopard cat on the tree. /CCTV Photo
It's the first time in more than a decade the spotted cat has been seen in the province's coastal area, according to the team.
Leopard cat, commonly known as the copper coin cat, usually inhabits in the woodland, bushwood and barren hills.
A leopard cat. /CCTV Photo
A leopard cat. /CCTV Photo
With flat terrain and agricultural development, there are only a few habitats for leopard cats to live and breed in the Dafeng District of Yancheng City. In the plains, without large felines or canines, the leopard cat is the top predator of the food chain and plays a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem's integrity and stability.
A leopard cat on the grass. /CCTV Photo
A leopard cat on the grass. /CCTV Photo
Wild leopard cats were once widely distributed in China, with the total amount reaching about one million. However, due to mass hunting and trading, their number has been drastically reduced. Now, it is listed as an endangered animal in China.
The survival of the animal depends on proper habitat and abundant prey. Experts said the re-emergence of the leopard cat shows the region has a healthy ecosystem, providing a home for rare and endangered wildlife.
Source(s): China Daily