An Indian desert cat has been spotted for the first time in Madhya Pradesh’s Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR). Also known as the Asiatic Wildcat or Asian Steppe Wildcat.
• The species is highly adaptable and can be found in forests as well as arid and semi-arid regions (low vegetation, high temperatures and water scarcity).
• It has also been sighted in Sariska Tiger Reserve of Rajasthan and Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh.
• It preys on small rodents and reptiles and is mostly a nocturnal creature.
• The toes of the species have cushion like hair which help it balance the fluctuating desert temperatures.
• The animal is in the ‘Least Concern’ category of the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
• It is listed under Schedule 1 of the wildlife protection act 1972.
• It is also listed in CITES appendix-II
