Asiatic Golden Cat Rediscovered in Assam’s Manas National Park

Why in the news?

The Asiatic golden cat, a rare and elusive species, was recently spotted in Assam’s Manas National Park after a prolonged absence, marking a notable conservation achievement and highlighting the ongoing efforts to protect endangered wildlife in the region.

Asiatic Golden Cat Rediscovered in Assam's Manas National Park

Significant Conservation Milestone:

  • The Asiatic golden cat, recently sighted in Manas National Park in Assam, marks a major success for conservation efforts in the region.
  • Known for its elusive nature, this medium-sized cat’s reappearance highlights the effectiveness of habitat protection and conservation measures in the park.

Characteristics and Habitat:

  • Often referred to as the “fire cat” in Thailand and the “rock cat” in China, the Asiatic golden cat has a striking coat that can range from cinnamon and grey to black.
  • The species is highly adaptable, found in diverse habitats such as tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, and sub-alpine areas.
  • Solitary and territorial by nature, it is known to cover large territories, making it a rare sight even within its native range.

Threats and Conservation Status:

  • Listed as “Near Threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Asiatic golden cat faces ongoing threats from habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trade.
  • In India, it is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, ensuring legal safeguards against poaching and habitat encroachment.
  • The recent sighting underscores the critical need for continued conservation efforts to secure the species’ survival amidst escalating environmental challenges.

Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve – Key Facts

  • Location: Situated in the Himalayan foothills in Assam, India; borders the Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan.
  • Unique Status: Designated as a Natural World Heritage Site, Tiger Reserve, Elephant Reserve, Biosphere Reserve, and Important Bird Area.
  • Tiger Conservation: Among the first in India’s Project Tiger (1973); part of a vast tiger conservation landscape extending into Bhutan and Myanmar.
  • Origins: Named after the Manas River, a major Brahmaputra tributary linked to the serpent goddess Manasa.
  • Flora: Dominated by Sal trees, mixed deciduous, semi-evergreen forests, grasslands, riparian vegetation, and bamboo brakes.
  • Fauna: Hosts endangered species like the Hispid Hare, Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur, Indian Rhinoceros, and Asiatic Buffalo.
  • Climate: Experiences a tropical monsoon climate, supporting diverse forest and grassland habitats.

Asiatic Golden Cat – Key Facts

  • Scientific Name: Catopuma temminckii, honouring Coenraad Jacob Temminck; also known as Temminck’s cat.
  • Native Range: Found in Northeastern Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and China.
  • Physical Traits: Medium-sized, stocky build; referred to as the “fire cat” in Thailand/Burma and “rock cat” in China.
  • Behaviour: Solitary, territorial, and primarily diurnal and crepuscular.
  • Diet: Carnivorous, preys on rodents, birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
  • Reproduction: Polygynous; 1-3 kittens per litter, born after 81 days; maturity reached in 18-24 months.
  • Conservation Status: IUCN: Near Threatened; protected under India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, Schedule I.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times