The Asian fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), or the "fishing cat," is a wild feline native to Asia. These cats have unique physical and behavioural characteristics that make them well-suited for their semi-aquatic lifestyle. Fishing cats can be found in many Asian countries, including Sri Lanka, where they are considered valuable to the island's diverse wildlife.
On my first full day in Sri Lanka in March 2022, I had the great fortune to see a mother and her two kits. The whole experience lasted only a few moments, and I didn't even realize what I was seeing until it was almost over. I would not have gotten these photos without the right lens and setting on my camera ready for action.
Physical Characteristics of the Fishing Cat
Fishing cats are medium-sized felines, with males weighing 8-16 kg and females weighing 5-7 kg. They have a distinctive appearance, with short, dense fur, often reddish-brown or gray in colour and a series of dark stripes or spots on their bodies. Their tails are short and thick, with black rings and a blunt tip. Their ears are round and wide, with a white spot on the back of each ear. These physical characteristics are well-suited to their semi-aquatic lifestyle, allowing them to blend into their environment and move through the water easily.
Behavioural Characteristics of the Fishing Cat
Fishing cats are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They are known for their hunting skills, and their semi-aquatic lifestyle means they are adept at catching fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic prey. Their webbed feet allow them to swim efficiently, and their dense fur repels water, making it easier to move through the water.
Fishing cats are also territorial animals, marking their territories with urine and scratches. They are solitary animals except during the breeding season between December and March. During this time, males will seek out females and mate with them. Females will give birth to litters of 2-4 kittens after a gestation period of 63-70 days.
Fishing Cats in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is home to several different wildlife species, including several types of felines. The fishing cat is one of the most unique and fascinating of these species and is found in various parts of the country. In Sri Lanka, fishing cats can be found in wetland areas, such as marshes and lagoons, as well as in the country's dense forests and mangrove swamps.
Despite their importance to Sri Lanka's ecosystem, the country's fishing cats face several threats. One of the main threats to fishing cats in Sri Lanka is habitat loss. As the country's population grows, more land is being cleared for agriculture and development. This reduces the amount of habitat available to fishing cats, making it more challenging to find the resources they need to survive.
Another threat to fishing cats in Sri Lanka is poaching. These cats are highly valued for their fur and body parts and are often hunted illegally for these purposes. This threatens the survival of individual animals and undermines the country's efforts to protect and preserve its wildlife.
Conservation Efforts for Fishing Cats in Sri Lanka
Despite these threats, several conservation efforts are underway to protect fishing cats in Sri Lanka. One such effort is the Fishing Cat Conservation Project, which is dedicated to conserving and protecting the fishing cat and its habitat. In addition, this project works with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of fishing cats and provides education and training to help people understand how to protect these animals.
Another conservation effort is the establishment of protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, where fishing cats and other wildlife can thrive. These protected areas provide a safe haven for these animals and help ensure they have the resources they need to survive.
Conclusion
The Asian fishing cat is fascinating and unique.