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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Frequently asked questions
Where was the Fishing Cat first sighted in Rajasthan?
The **Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)** was spotted for the **first time in Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR), Bundi district, Rajasthan**. Camera traps in the Ramgarh Range captured it during routine tiger monitoring.
What is the conservation status of the Fishing Cat in India?
The **Fishing Cat** is a **Schedule-I protected species** under the **Wildlife Protection Act** — the highest protection level. Its first sighting in Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve, Bundi is significant for Rajasthan's biodiversity.
What is Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve?
**Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR)** is a tiger reserve in **Bundi district, Rajasthan**. It recorded the **first-ever Fishing Cat sighting** (Prionailurus viverrinus) during routine monitoring, adding to its small cat species count.
How was the Fishing Cat detected in RVTR?
The **Fishing Cat** was detected by **camera traps** in the Ramgarh Range of RVTR during **routine tiger monitoring** by the reserve's biologist and the Dalelpura tracking team.
How many small cat species were in RVTR before the Fishing Cat sighting?
**RVTR had four small cat species** before the Fishing Cat sighting. The addition of the **Fishing Cat (Schedule-I)** further enriched the biodiversity of Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve, Bundi.
