English Name
Scientific Name
Body Length
Tail Length
RDB Category
: Iriomote Wild Cat
: Felis iriomotensis
: 50-60cm
: 23-24cm
: EN (Threatened I: Endangered)

Iriomote Wild Cat



  Iriomote Wild Cat is endemic in Japan, and distributes only in Iriomote Island of Okinawa Pref. It is more slender and darker than Tsushima Leopard Cat, which is also endemic. It is often seen at wetlands or rivers on the foot of mountains. It is good climber and swimmer, and captures small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Although it needs primary forests to live, its habitat has reduced due to development in recent years. Because the population is estimated at only one hundred, Ministry of the Environment promote the captured breeding project at Iriomote Wildlife Center.