What Do Fishing Cats Eat?

Fishing cats, also known as viverrine cats, are medium-sized felids native to Southeast Asia. As their name suggests, they are highly adapted to hunting aquatic prey. Their diet primarily consists of:

  • Fish: Fish are the most common food source for fishing cats, and they will often hunt in rivers, streams, and swamps.
  • Amphibians: Frogs, toads, and newts are also common prey for fishing cats, especially during the breeding season.
  • Reptiles: Snakes, lizards, and turtles are also occasionally consumed by fishing cats, although they are not as preferred as fish and amphibians.
  • Rodents: Small rodents, such as voles and mice, can also be part of a fishing cat's diet, especially when aquatic prey is scarce.
  • Birds: Birds, such as waterbirds and small passerines, are occasionally hunted by fishing cats, but they are not a major part of their diet.

Fishing cats have several adaptations that help them hunt aquatic prey, including semi-webbed feet for swimming, strong claws for holding onto slippery fish, and excellent hearing and eyesight for detecting prey in the water.

  • What are fishing cats' preferred prey? Fish and amphibians are their main targets.
  • Do fishing cats only hunt in water? No, they can also hunt on land for rodents and small mammals.
  • Are fishing cats endangered? Yes, they are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to habitat loss and poaching.
  • Where are fishing cats found? They are native to Southeast Asia, from Bangladesh to Indonesia.
  • How large are fishing cats? They are about the size of a domestic cat, with adults typically weighing between 5-16 kilograms.
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