Name: Asiatic Wild Cat also known as the Asiatic Steppe Cat and Indian Desert (Felis sylvestris ornate) – Small Cat

Size: 3-4 kg (6.5 lb)

Distribution: The Asiatic Wild Cat can be found in Iran, eastern regions of the Caspian Sea, Mongolia, N.W China, Russia and N.E India. They are normally associated with scrub desert and bushes but can also be found in cultivated areas. In relation to the African and European Wildcat, the Asiatic Wild Cat is considered the most threatened.

Description: This is due to hybridization with domestic and feral cats, habitation loss and hunting of its spotted coat. This subspecies is smaller than its relatives in Africa and Europe. It has a gray-yellow to reddish coat with small brown or gray spots. The Asiatic Wild Cat is known to be a solitary nocturnal hunter that favors small mammals, birds and snakes.

Lifespan: 12-15 years