Threatened species of Pardofelis marmorata

With widespread deforestation occurring in south east Asia, there is particular concern for the future of Pardofelis marmorata. The Marbled cat is probably opportunistically hunted, but specimens are not commonly observed in local wildlife markets. There is a lack of knowledge of the behaviour, diet and ecological niche of P. marmorata which is of great concern in the light of deforestation.

The Marbled cat may be found from the North East of India to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo and some neighbouring small islands. It most commonly inhabits forested regions, ranging from high mountain forest as found in Nepal to the dense lowland tropical forests of Borneo.

The evolutionary history of this species continues to be a taxonomic puzzle: Wozencraft's (1993) revision of the family Felidae concluded that the classification of the marbled cat should at best be considered uncertain.

The true population of Pardofelis marmorata is unknown but it is estimated at 10,000 individuals. Due to the deforestation occurring throughout much of its range it is considered to be endangered.

The IUCN considers Pardofelis marmorata as "Data Deficient". CITES lists the species as "Appendix 1".