Rare Asian golden cat caught on camera in Manipur

Imphal: A camera trap snapped a rare Asian golden cat in the village of Shirui. This marks the first time the species has appeared in Manipur wildlife records. The Environmental Force at Grass Root Level, known as ENFOGAL, confirmed the sighting in the Ukhrul district. It is a major find. The animal is officially listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.

These wild felines are native to South and Southeast Asia. They stay hidden. Researchers rely on remote traps to monitor their movement in dense forests. This discovery highlights the biodiversity hidden within the Shirui Hills. ENFOGAL representatives said the discovery shows the need for regular wildlife monitoring and stronger forest conservation efforts in the Shirui Hills. The group is now pushing for more photographic surveys. They want to map the population, movement patterns, and habitat use of the cat across the region.