Fishing Cat:
The first scientific assessment of the fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) has established Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve as a stronghold of the small feline species.
- It is a medium-sized wild cat species.
- It is found in a variety of wetland habitats, mangrove forests, swamps, marshes.
- It is adapted to both fresh and saltwater habitats, and is able to tolerate a wide range of weather conditions, from tropical rain forests to temperate regions.
- It is native to South and Southeast Asia.
- It inhabits the peninsular region of India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Java, and Pakistan.
- In India, fishing cats are mainly found in the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, on the foothills of the Himalayas along the Ganga and Brahmaputra river valleys, and in the Western Ghats.
- The fishing cat is an adept swimmer and enters water frequently to prey on fish, as its name suggests. It is known to even dive to catch fish.
- They show strong sexual dimorphism. Males are considerably larger.
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
- Wildlife Protection Act of 1972: Schedule I
