CENRO CADIZ RESCUE & RELEASE LEOPARD CATS

Three (3) Visayan leopard cats (Prionailurus bengalensis rabori) locally known as "Maral" were turned over to DENR-CENRO Cadiz, recently. They were rescued by Mr. Margarito Sabino in the sugarcane area at Hacienda Labinay, Brgy. Daga, Cadiz City. The wildcats were brought to the Cadiz City Veterinary Office for a physical examination before their release back into the wild.

The felines were released in the forested area at Sitio Cotcot, Brgy. Mabini, Cadiz City on March 14, 2024 headed by Wildlife Unit Head Rezel Purisima and FT I Chelo Abelo. Poaching, illegal hunting, and possession of wildlife species without proper documents are punishable by law under Republic Act (RA) 9147, or the "Wildlife Resources Protection and Conservation Act". Leopard cats are considered vulnerable according to the DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 or the "Updated National List of Threatened Fauna and their Categories".

Visayan leopard cats prey on small mammals such as rodents, birds, insects and snails. They are endemic to the islands of Panay and Negros and inhabits the remaining forest fragments

“All of us have the responsibility to protect these endemic species. They are our pride and a manifestation of the rich biodiversity here in Western Visayas. Let us do our best in ensuring that their habitats are protected or rehabilitated so that future generations will have the opportunity to see these wonderful creatures thriving in the wild,” Regional Executive Director Livino B. Duran said.

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