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Bay Cat

Species Facts

The species is about the size of a large domestic cat, with an extra-long tail. Its coat is mahogany red or blackish gray on the back and flanks, with paler under parts. The ears are short and rounded, set well down on the sides of the head.

  • Scientific Designation: Catopuma badia
  • Endangered Status: Endangered (EN)
  • Lifespan: Unknown
  • Weight: 2–4 kg (4–9 lbs)
  • Length: 53 cm (21") (female) - 67 cm (26") (male)
  • Height: About 28 cm (11”)
  • Tail Length: 32–39 cm
Image shows a close up of the island of Borneo. Most of the island is shaded as "extant" or resident range for the Bay Cat.

Species Distribution

The bay cat is one of the world’s most rare and least known felids. It is found solely on the island of Borneo. The bay cat is associated with dense forests.

Distribution map courtesy of IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), compiled in 2015.

Threats to the Bay Cat

Threats to this rare species include habitat loss due to deforestation and hunting and trapping for the pelt and pet markets.

The species is categorized as Endangered (EN) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Its extreme rarity mandates the bay cat’s full protection over most of its range under appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

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