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As its name implies, the favored prey of the fishing cat is fish. While most cats are built for running with long legs and a long tail, the stocky fishing cat is built more for strong swimming with short, powerful limbs, and a rudder-like tail.

Fishing cat (Photo: Kathy Newton)

Did You Know?

The fishing cat wears a coat of fur designed for an aquatic lifestyle with a dense waterproof inner layer and a protective outer layer of long, coarse hair.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Prionailurus viverrinus

Range:
Southeastern Asia

Habitat:
Wetland, grassland, and forest

Height:
1.8 to 2.8 ft

Lifespan:
10 yrs

Zoo Location:
Night Hunters

Diet:
Fish, small mammals, birds, insects, and crustaceans

Risk Status:
Species at Risk (IUCN-Endangered)