rustyspotted

Rusty-spotted cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus) is a small wild cat native to the Indian subcontinent, and it is among the smallest wild cats in the world. The coat is typically sandy to light brown with a dense pattern of rusty or reddish-brown spots and faint rosettes, providing camouflage in dappled forest light. Adults usually measure about 35–48 cm in body length, with a tail around 15–25 cm, and weigh roughly 1.2–1.6 kg.

The species occurs in parts of India and Sri Lanka, inhabiting a range of forested and brushy habitats. It favors dense vegetation, scrub, mangroves, and agricultural areas with cover, and can be found from sea level up to around 1,000–1,500 meters in elevation. The rusty-spotted cat is generally shy and elusive, and is mainly active at night or during twilight hours.

Behaviorally, rusty-spotted cats are solitary and territorial. They hunt small vertebrates and invertebrates, including rodents, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, using stealth and short bursts of speed. They are capable climbers and may retreat to trees when threatened. Reproduction is not strictly seasonal; females typically give birth to litters of 2–3 kittens after a gestation of about 60–70 days. Cubs remain with the mother for several months before becoming independent.

Conservation status is listed by the IUCN as Near Threatened, with habitat loss, fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflict cited as primary threats. Protected by national laws in India and Sri Lanka, conservation efforts emphasize habitat protection and reducing disturbances in key areas.