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The recent rediscovery of a rare species is a double-edged sword, sparking both excitement and concern within the scientific community. Kaset Sutasha, a veterinarian and researcher from Kasetsart University, expressed his apprehensions. He pointed out that habitat fragmentation is increasingly isolating this species, posing a significant threat to its survival.
This ecological survey was a collaborative effort between Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) and Panthera Thailand. Their work sheds light on the current state of the species, although the exact number of individuals remains unclear due to the absence of distinctive markings, which complicates counting efforts.
The flat-headed cat, known for its nocturnal and elusive nature, inhabits dense wetland ecosystems. These include peat swamps and freshwater mangroves, which are notoriously difficult for researchers to access, further complicating efforts to study and protect this rare creature.