The first recorded presence of the rusty-spotted cat, the world’s smallest and lightest wild cat, has been documented in Bengal’s wilderness.

About Rusty-Spotted Cat

• Distribution: The rusty-spotted cat is primarily found in northern and central India, the Western Ghats, Kachchh, Rajasthan, and peninsular India.
  • India holds 80% of the total population of this species.
  • It is also found in Nepal and Sri Lanka.
• Features:
• • It is the smallest and lightest known wild cat, weighing under 1.5 kg.
  • The cat has a fawn-grey coat with distinctive rusty spots on its back and flanks.
• Gestation Period: The gestation period of the rusty-spotted cat lasts approximately 66 to 70 days.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: It is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
  • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: It is listed under Schedule I, offering it the highest level of protection.
• Territorial: It establishes territorial boundaries using scent markings from urine and glands.
• Nocturnal: The rusty-spotted cat is primarily active at night, using enhanced night vision to hunt and evade predators.

Ready to boost your UPSC 2025 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!