Identification
Morphological Characteristics:
The fishing cat closely resembles the jungle cat in appearance but is larger. Distinguishing features include the tail, which is noticeably shorter in the fishing cat, approximately one-third the length of its body (compared to the jungle cat, whose tail is about half the body length). The fishing cat’s tail has spots and faint rings blended within a gray background (these are very distinct on the jungle cat’s tail). The fishing cat’s coat is grayish-brown with numerous small, indistinct spots on the gray background. The spots on the fishing cat are smaller than those of the jungle cat.
Biology and Ecology
Diet:
The fishing cat’s diet consists of fish, crabs, snails, rats, and birds.
Habitat:
Fishing cats inhabit environments near water bodies close to forests, such as evergreen forests, Melaleuca forests, mangrove forests along the coast, and the Mekong Delta, as well as areas of shrubs and reeds along rivers and streams. These cats are primarily terrestrial but are also adept swimmers. They build their nests in holes in the ground, under bushes, or in tree hollows. The gestation period is approximately 63 days, with litters of 1-4 cubs.
Distribution
Within Vietnam:
Primarily found in the southern regions. Sample collection sites include Cao Bang, Khanh Hoa, Ho Chi Minh City, and Kien Giang.
Worldwide:
Found in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Southern China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Value
Contributes to regulating the population of prey animals in the wild. Has value for scientific research and can be kept in zoos for conservation and educational purposes.
Conservation Status
The fishing cat is rarely encountered in the wild; they are more commonly found in Melaleuca forests and mangrove forests of the Mekong Delta. Due to overhunting and habitat destruction, particularly of wetlands, the species is at risk of extinction if not effectively protected.
Ranking
EN – A1c,d C1+2a
Conservation Measures
The fishing cat is listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book and classified as Group IB in Decree 32/2006/ND-CP. Strict control is needed to manage hunting and trade of wild animals, especially in the Mekong Delta region.