The biodiversity of Maharashtra’s Pench, often linked to the mythical stories of Mowgli, never ceases to amaze.
After the recent spotting of Eurasian otters and native lesser floricans, the tiger reserve has now officially recorded the existence of a leopard cat. This marks the inaugural documentation of this species in Central India.
India is the dwelling place of 15 felid species, constituting more than 40% of the total felid diversity worldwide. Out of these, the highest number of species, 10 in total, are small felids. However, despite their significant ecological significance, there is a lack of data on small felids, especially in Central India.
The leopard cat, scientifically known as Prionailurus bengalensis, ranks as the second most prevalent felid species in India following the jungle cat. In the past, it was primarily found in North-East India, the Northern Himalayan states, West Bengal, Odisha, and certain areas of the Western Ghats, with no documented sightings in Central India until recently.
A leopard cat was caught on camera in compartment number 663 within the Narhar beat, situated in the buffer zone of Nagalwadi range, part of the Mansinghdeo Wildlife Sanctuary. This area, neighboring the West Pench range, is celebrated for its untouched wilderness and is merely 2km away from Narhar village.
Comprehending the distribution of animal species is essential for comprehensive conservation endeavours. The recent sighting will prompt further investigation into the distribution patterns of this relatively less-studied feline species, providing valuable insights into its presence and behaviour in India.
Wildlife experts were also taken aback by the leopard cat’s appearance in Pench’s dry-deciduous forests, considering its preference for arboreal habitats. Previous genetic studies and historical records had never noted the presence of the species in the Central Indian landscape. The leopard cat’s distribution was believed to be constrained by high summer temperatures.
