Rusty-spotted Cat

Near Threatened

Estimated remaining: ~10,000

Habitat

Forests, grasslands, and scrublands of India and Sri Lanka, one of the smallest wild cats with preference for dense vegetation and rocky areas.

Threats

• Habitat loss to agriculture
• Persecution as poultry predators
• Road mortality
• Illegal pet trade
• Prey depletion

Conservation efforts

Protected in national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Research on distribution and ecology. Community education programs. Habitat protection initiatives. Camera trap monitoring.