Clouded Leopard

International Clouded Leopard Day was recently observed in Aizawl, Mizoram, which is officially observed on August 4.

About the clouded leopard:

• It is a wild cat inhabiting dense forests from the foothills of the Himalayas through Northeast India and Bhutan to mainland Southeast Asia into South China.
• It is also called mainland clouded leopard.
• The clouded leopard is the state animal of Meghalaya.

Habitat and Range:

• Native to Southern China, Bhutan, Nepal, northeast India, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, and Bangladesh.

Unique Characteristics:

• Dusky-grey coat with large blotches and irregular spots and stripes, resembling clouds.
• Has the longest tail relative to body size among cats, used for balancing in trees.
• More adapted to arboreal life than terrestrial.
• Capable of climbing down vertical tree trunks head first and resting in trees during the day.

Behavior:

• Solitary and nocturnal, primarily hunts on the forest floor.
• Known for its exceptional climbing abilities.

Threats:

• Habitat loss and fragmentation
• Poaching and illegal wildlife trade

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Status: Vulnerable
• Wildlife (Protection) Act 1976: Schedule I and IV
• CITES: Appendix I

Significance of the Clouded Leopard:

• Symbol of Conservation Efforts: The clouded leopard is a powerful symbol for protecting endangered species amidst ecological threats.

[ref-greenverz]

Ref: Source

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)