There are only 4,500 specimens of this endangered species left in the wild

At Terra Natura Benidorm we are carrying out an awareness campaign for the protection of biodiversity, commemorating today the International Day of the Clouded Panther (Neofelis nebulosa) and alerting about the conservation problems suffered by this feline. In fact, it is estimated that there are only 4,500 specimens of this species left in the wild, which is in a vulnerable state according to the IUCN and is included in Appendix I of CITES.

At Terra Natura Benidorm we have two females of this species, called Leakena and Kesor, which is considered to be one of the rarest felines in existence. They are sisters and both are 12 years old. Both weigh around 15 kilos and measure around 80 centimetres. They are shy and elusive animals, with nocturnal habits, which tend to be more active during the night.

To improve their well-being, our team of vets and zoo keepers carry out some environmental enrichment actions, consisting of olfactory actions, in which traces of spices are placed in their meadow, pieces of meat are hidden for them to look for, and elements with logs are introduced, as walkways, or branches for them to climb on, as well as changing part of the meadow furniture periodically.

To celebrate International Clouded Panther Day, an information stand has been set up in the tiger area of the park, where biological material has been displayed for visitors to learn more about these fascinating felines. Educational talks have also been given on their characteristics, environmental problems, threats, state of conservation worldwide, etc.

The main threats to this species are poaching, the decrease in prey and the reduction of their habitat. The panthers of Terra Natura Benidorm are part of the EEP programme of the EAZA to protect their conservation. Panthers enjoy nestling among the branches of the vegetation, grooming themselves and snoozing in the shade. The felines tend to be territorial and solitary animals, but as they are sisters and have lived together since birth, they have a good relationship.

The clouded panther, also known as the leopard longibando, stands out for its great ability to climb trees, as it moves nimbly through the branches thanks to its long tail that acts as a seesaw. It is capable of descending the trunk of a tree almost vertically. Its fur is covered with large irregular patches with a black border and a brown interior, which helps it to blend in with the leaves. In fact, its name comes from these cloud-like spots.

It usually lives in the tropical forests of Southeast Asian countries and is very sensitive to human pressure. Like other felids, it is an opportunistic predator that preys on a wide range of arboreal and terrestrial mammals, including primates, sambar deer, squirrels and civets, porcupines and bearded boars, among others. Also all kinds of micro-mammals, as well as a multitude of birds, reptiles such as monitor lizards and even fish.