On the Occurrence of Rusty-spotted Cat Prionailurus rubiginosus in Odisha, Eastern India

What is it about?

In the present study, based on the Forest Department rescue records, we have reported its wide spread distribution in Odisha, eastern India.

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Why is it important?

Lack of scientific information encourages biased understanding on status and distribution of different species. The Rusty-spotted Cat Prionailurus rubiginosus is the world’s smallest felid endemic to India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. As much of its distributional range is falling outside protected area network, it is more vulnerable to loss and degradation of the habitat from anthropogenic activities. So, region specific baseline information is essential to reassess its status.