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Thse species of wild cats inhabit dense forests from the foothills of the Himalayas through mainland Southeast Asia into the south of China. Estimates show fewer than 10,000 Clouded leopards living in the wild. These shy and nocturnal animals are an endangered species as they are illegally hunted for their fur, and also because their habitat is constantly being threatened..
These species of wild cats inhabit dense forests from the foothills of the Himalayas through mainland Southeast Asia into the south of China. Estimates show fewer than 10,000 Clouded leopards living in the wild. These shy and nocturnal animals are an endangered species as they are illegally hunted for their fur, and also because their habitat is constantly being threatened.
The clouded leopard genetically diverged from pantherine cats million years ago. They are locally extinct in Singapore, Taiwan, and possibly Hainan Island and Vietnam. Its total population is suspected to be fewer than 10,000 mature individuals, with no single population numbering more than 1,000 adults. It was listed as vulnerable on the I.U.C.N. Red List in 2008 because of this.
Large–scale deforestation and commercial poaching for the wildlife trade have continued to threaten the population of the clouded leopard. Their body parts are offered for decoration and clothing even though it is legally protected in many countries. With their existence being continuously threatened, captive breeding programs were brought about in the 1980s. The clouded leopard has an average lifespan of 11 years in captivity, which is a good number compared to them living in the wild.