Researchers across the fishing cat’s range are working to save the elusive wetland-dwelling cat, which is declining due to habitat loss and conflict with fishers.
With partially webbed feet, semi-retractable claws for hooking slippery prey and two layers of fur to keep dry, the fishing cat is built to hunt in water. Populations of the species are scattered across the wetlands of South and Southeast Asia, but the nocturnal wild cat is scarce and rarely seen. While its total population size is unknown, the fishing cat is considered vulnerable to extinction, as it faces a multitude of threats.
In some parts of its range, the fishing cat is persecuted out of retaliation for stealing fish and destroying fishing nets. In other areas, it is hunted for its meat. A common threat throughout its Asian range is habitat loss.
Researchers studying the fishing cat stress that its survival hinges on the protection and restoration of its wetland home, and achieving peaceful coexistence with the humans who live alongside it. Across the species’ broad and varied range, a host of projects are underway which are working to achieve just this.
https://www-thethirdpole-net.cdn.am...en/nature/fishing-cat-in-troubled-waters/?amp
With partially webbed feet, semi-retractable claws for hooking slippery prey and two layers of fur to keep dry, the fishing cat is built to hunt in water. Populations of the species are scattered across the wetlands of South and Southeast Asia, but the nocturnal wild cat is scarce and rarely seen. While its total population size is unknown, the fishing cat is considered vulnerable to extinction, as it faces a multitude of threats.
In some parts of its range, the fishing cat is persecuted out of retaliation for stealing fish and destroying fishing nets. In other areas, it is hunted for its meat. A common threat throughout its Asian range is habitat loss.
Researchers studying the fishing cat stress that its survival hinges on the protection and restoration of its wetland home, and achieving peaceful coexistence with the humans who live alongside it. Across the species’ broad and varied range, a host of projects are underway which are working to achieve just this.
https://www-thethirdpole-net.cdn.am...en/nature/fishing-cat-in-troubled-waters/?amp