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Cats
The Top Predators:
In the lack of tigers, Borneo's cats comprise an exciting community of felines, all of which require conservation efforts. They are essential in keeping the local ecosystem balance. Two of the endangered cats will be this page's spotlight.
Taxonamy
Flat-headed
cat
Scientific name
Felis planiceps
Size
40-60 cm
Population
Decreasing
Type
Mammals
(Cat)
Weights
1.5-2.5 kg
Habitat
coastal and lowland rainforests
Diet
Omnivores
Conservation Status
Endangered
Bay Cat
Scientific name
Pardofelis badia
Size
49.5-67 cm
Population
Decreasing
Type
Mammals
(Cats)
Weights
3-4 kg
Habitat
Dense primary forest & rocky limestone area
Diet
Carnivroes
Conservation Status
Endangered
Fun facts!
Four cats can't retract their claws, and the Flat-Headed Cat is one of them.
Known as fishing cats, they like catching fish and amphibians and are skilled climbers of trees to capture birds. They are good swimmers!
They are shy and rarely to be seen. Check out the rare footage of this cutie!
Because they are so hard to find, bay cats are really among the world's least recognised cat species.
Here are a very rare capture of the 'sneaky' cat.
Why are they endangered?
Habitat loss. Bay cats and flat-headed cats are becoming increasingly endangered in Borneo due to habitat degradation brought on by deforestation and palm plantations.
Hunting. For bay cats, along with smuggling, other major risks include opportunistic hunting and trapping.
Water pollution. Interestingly, the biggest danger to flat-headed cats is water pollution caused by runoff from agriculture and logging since it pollutes their food. When these contaminants are consumed by their prey, the cats get poisoned.
Conservation is not just about saving species; it's about saving ecosystems and the delicate balance of nature
How can humans help?
The Bornean Clouded Leopard Program
More research is needed to be carried out to help these wild cat species. This programme examines the five Bornean wild cat species' conditions, habits, environment, and genetics. Check out the link to learn more and see what we can contribute.
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