A Clouded Leopard, but which species? (Image: Wikipedia).

Hiding in plain sight? It has been discovered, through genetic analysis and other factors, that there is a strong case for the clouded leopard to be divided into two separate species. Presently the clouded leopard is regarded as a monotypic genus with four subspecies.

According to the blogsite Big Cat Rescue, there is good reasoning behind the "reclassification and the defining of two distinct species of clouded leopard – Neofelis nebulosa (mainland Asia) and Neofelis diardi (Indonesian archipelago). This case for two clouded leopard species based on genetic distinction that is equivalent to, or greater than, comparable measures among other Panthera species (lion, tiger, leopard, jaguar, and snow leopard) is also strongly supported by the geographical variation revealed by morphometric analyses of the pelage (coat colour and patterns) between clouded leopard in Mainland Asia and in Indonesia (Borneo and Sumatra); again providing a compelling case for reclassification into two distinct species N. nebulosa and N. diardi.

For the complete discussion and journal abstracts, please see "Research shows clouded leopards are two distinct species".

Cryptozoologically speaking, we wonder if the Formosan clouded leopard still roams. This cat is thought to be extinct in Taiwan, as the last sighting was in 1983 of a snarled juvenile. This subspecies was characterized by its relatively much shorter tail, and historically found below 2500 feet. The hope is that some may have adapted to living above this height on the wilder mountains on Taiwan, and it might not be extinct.

Clouded Leopard stamp issue, India, and thus Neofelis nebulosa.