FISHING CAT

PRELIMS BITS – SPECIES

Habitat – Thrives in wetlands, swamps, mangroves, marshes, oxbow lakes, reed beds, and tidal creeks.

Characteristics

• Expert Swimmer: Known for diving to catch fish, its primary prey.
• Diet: Feeds on fish, frogs, crustaceans, and small mammals.
• Behavior: Nocturnal predator, active during the night.
• Physical Features:
  • Muscular build with a short tail having 6-7 dark bands.
  • Breeds year-round.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable.

Ecological Role

• Indicator Species: Reflects the health of wetland ecosystems.
• Ecosystem Balance: Helps maintain aquatic biodiversity.