felid

Felid refers to members of the family Felidae, a group of carnivorous mammals in the order Carnivora. Felidae includes two main subfamilies, Pantherinae and Felinae, and spans both large cats such as lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars and small cats including the domestic cat (Felis catus). The family is distributed across most regions of the world, from tropical forests to deserts and temperate zones.

Felids are characterized by retractile claws, sharp teeth, and a carnassial pair adapted for slicing flesh. They typically have keen senses, especially vision and hearing, which support nocturnal and crepuscular hunting. Most species are solitary, though some, like lions, form social groups. They rely on stealth and short bursts of speed, and territorial marking helps reduce conflict with neighbors.

Ecology and behavior: Felids occupy a wide range of ecological niches as predators of vertebrates and, in some cases, of smaller prey. They employ ambush and stalking strategies, and their diet varies with size and habitat. Communication includes vocalizations from purring to roaring (the latter in Pantherinae), as well as scent marking and body language.

Evolution and conservation: Felids originated in Eurasia during the late Oligocene to early Miocene, with early fossil genera such as Proailurus. Modern species diversified in the Miocene and Pliocene. Many felids face threats from habitat loss, prey depletion, and human conflict. Conservation efforts emphasize habitat protection, conflict mitigation, and, where possible, disease management. The domestic cat remains the most widespread felid in human environments and interacts with ecosystems as both predator and companion.