Neofelis

Neofelis is a small genus of one of the wild cats in the family Felidae, comprised of two living species native to parts of Asia. The name Neofelis combines Greek elements meaning new and cat. The two extant species are Neofelis nebulosa, the clouded leopard, and Neofelis diardi, the Sunda clouded leopard.

Physical characteristics of Neofelis species emphasize arboreal adaptation. They are medium-sized cats with long bodies, short legs, and a distinctive cloud-like pattern on their fur. Both species have large, laterally oriented canine teeth relative to body size, powerful forelimbs, and a long tail that aids in balance during tree climbing. They are noted for their exceptional climbing ability, aided by flexible ankles and sharp retractable claws, and they often hunt on the ground but frequently move through trees.

Geographic distribution varies between the two species. The clouded leopard (N. nebulosa) occurs across mainland Southeast Asia and parts of the Indian subcontinent, Indonesia, and nearby regions. The Sunda clouded leopard (N. diardi) is found in Sundaland, including Sumatra and Borneo, with historical populations in other nearby areas. Both species favor dense forests, including tropical forests and mangroves, where they use their stealth and climbing skills to stalk prey such as primates, ungulates, and small mammals.

Ecology and behavior are largely solitary and nocturnal. Breeding is seasonally variable, with females caring for small litters. Threats include habitat loss and fragmentation, poaching, and conflict with humans, leading to protected status in many range countries and declining populations for both species.