1. What is the clouded leopard, and where is it found?
The clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is a cat species known for its cloud-like spots on its hide. It is found in various parts of Asia, including mainland India, from central Nepal to peninsular Malaysia, and the Sunda islands.
2. How is the clouded leopard unique compared to other cat species?
The clouded leopard is often likened to the Ice Age saber-tooth due to having the largest canines in proportion to its skull size among all cat species. It also has rotating rear ankles that enable it to climb down head-first from trees, a behavior not seen in other felines.
3. What behavior did the scientists observe in the clouded leopards of Manas National Park?
The clouded leopards in Manas National Park and Tiger Reserve were observed to play a mysterious game of hide-and-seek in the tropical canopy forests. They were found to have the ability to go wherever they pleased without worrying about other predators, primarily because of their agility and climbing skills.
4. What is the conservation status of the clouded leopard?
The clouded leopard is categorized as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, indicating it is at high risk of extinction in the wild due to deforestation and poaching.
India:The clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is found in various regions in India. It is distributed across the northeastern states of India, including Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Manipur. The clouded leopard is known to inhabit dense tropical and subtropical forests, and it prefers hilly and mountainous terrain.
