Published: 22 September 2025Rajasthan
Fishing Cat Sighted for First Time in Rajasthan's Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve, Bundi
The Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR) in Bundi district, Rajasthan, recorded the first-ever sighting of the Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), a Schedule-I protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act. Camera traps in the Ramgarh Range captured images during routine tiger monitoring by the reserve's biologist and the Dalelpura tracking team.
This discovery raises RVTR's small cat diversity to five species — Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat (Felis chaus), Rusty-spotted Cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus), Asiatic Wildcat (Felis lybica ornata), and Caracal (Caracal caracal). The Fishing Cat is classified as 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List and typically inhabits wetlands, mangroves, and riverine habitats. Its presence underscores the ecological health of RVTR's aquatic ecosystems and its importance as a biodiversity corridor between Ranthambore and Mukundra Hills.
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Linked questionMedium
How many small cat species are now found in Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve after the Fishing Cat sighting?
Explanation · Correct answer CBefore the Fishing Cat discovery, RVTR had four small cat species: Jungle Cat, Rusty-spotted Cat, Asiatic Wildcat, and Caracal. The Fishing Cat brings the total to five.
Frequently asked questions
Where was Fishing Cat sighted for the first time in Rajasthan?
The **Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)** was spotted for the **first time** at **Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR)** in **Bundi district, Rajasthan**. This is a significant wildlife finding as the Fishing Cat is typically found in riverine and wetland ecosystems.
What is the Fishing Cat and why is it significant?
The **Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)** is a **Schedule I protected species** under India's Wildlife Protection Act. It is listed as **Vulnerable** on the IUCN Red List and is specially adapted for aquatic environments, making its sighting in **Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve** in Rajasthan notable.
What is Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan?
**Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR)** is located in **Bundi district, Rajasthan**, and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2022. The first-ever sighting of the **Fishing Cat** at this reserve highlights the rich biodiversity of the area.
What does the Fishing Cat sighting in Rajasthan indicate?
The **Fishing Cat sighting** at Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan indicates the **expansion of the species' range** beyond its known habitats in eastern and southern India. It also reflects the **improving ecological health** of the reserve's wetland areas.
Is the Fishing Cat endangered in India?
The **Fishing Cat** is listed as **Vulnerable** on the **IUCN Red List** and is a **Schedule I species** under India's Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, giving it the highest level of legal protection. Its first sighting in **Rajasthan's Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve** is significant for conservation.
