Clouded Leopards

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Clouded Leopards are medium-sized wild cats that are found in Asia. This species is the largest one among small to medium-sized wild cats. The Clouded Leopard is extremely secretive. One can hardly ever see the animal in the wild. The majority of Clouded Leopard pictures have been made in captivity. Due to its secretive nature, little is known about this wild cat. However, scientists have recently tried to learn more about Clouded Leopards. This knowledge is also indispensable in preserving the Clouded Leopard. Due to low numbers of Clouded Leopards, the species is considered endangered.

Clouded Leopards - Quick Facts

Source:
Exzooberance

Scientific Name: Neofelis nebulosa
Subspecies:

Neofelis nebulosa brachyurus;
Neofelis nebulosa diardi;
Neofelis nebulosa macrosceloides;
Neofelis nebulosa nebulosa;

Height: about 21 inches
Weight: 24-55 lbs
Life Span: 11
Status: Endangered according to the United States Endangered Species Act and vulnerable according to IUCN.

Clouded Leopards - Description

The Clouded Leopard was named so because of its appearance. The species has elliptical markings edged in black. The background color is yellow to brown. There are also brown and black elongated spots on the back and the neck of the Clouded Leopard. A very long tail has black rings. The eyes are usually yellow.

In fact, the Clouded Leopard has been placed into a separate genus due to its domed skull that is different from other felines. Thus, despite its name, the Clouded Leopard should not be considered a type of Leopard as such, but should be treated as a separate species.

Clouded Leopards - Pictures

Source:
Moldred Org

Clouded Leopards make good hunters and can climb trees well. These wild cats can climb trees upside down under the branches and hang from the branches with the help of their hind legs. It should be mentioned that Clouded Leopards are mainly arboreal animals. They spend most of time in trees. The species has a number of adaptations that provide for this life style. The Clouded Leopard has short strong legs, large paws with amazingly sharp claws, and a long tail that allows good balance while climbing.

Canine teeth are one of the peculiarities of the Clouded Leopard. The teeth are long and appear to be the largest of all the cats in proportion to the body. Clouded Leopards are sometimes referred to as the "modern day sabre-toothed."