The Black-footed Cat (Felis nigries) is the smallest cat in Africa and the second smallest of all wild cats. It is endemic to the arid regions of southern Africa where it is naturally rare and occurs at low densities. These cats, despite their small size, can travel vast distances in search of sparse prey, and have special adaptations to cope with their semi-arid to arid environment.

Black-footed Cat Unique Facts

~ Second smallest of all wild cats ~

~ Requires no drinking water ~

~ Endemic to southern Africa  ~

Black-footed Cat (Felis nigripes) Classification

The taxonomy or scientific classification of the Black-footed Cat species (Felis nigripes) is as follows:

Kingdom: Animalia   (animals)

Phylum: Chordata   (vertebrates)

Class: Mammalia   (mammals)

Order: Carnivora   (carnivores)

Suborder: Feliformia   (cat-like)

Family: Felidae   (cats)

Subfamily: Felinae   (small cats)

Genus: Felis

Species: Felis nigripes (Black-footed Cat)

Black-footed Cat (Felis nigripes) Subspecies (lower classifications)

Two subspecies of Black-footed Cats have been recognized in the past:

1. Felis nigripes nigripes - northern range (lighter base color and markings)

2. Felis nigripes thomasi - southern range (darker base color and markings)

However the current Felidae taxonomy revision suggests that only the species Felis nigripes is valid and thus monotypic (no subspecies). There is insufficient variation to substantiate a subspecies split and just a northern and southern race is more appropriate.

Black-footed Cat Conservation and Research

The global conservation status for the Black-footed Cat is Vulnerable (VU) due to its restricted range in arid regions of southern Africa, where it is naturally rare and occurs at low densities.

The Black-footed Cat Working Group has a long term monitoring program in South Africa, assisted by funding from ISEC in Canada.

Black-footed Cat Facts and Information

The following websites have well researched and authoritative information on Black-footed Cats:

• Black-footed Cat Images and Video Clips - ARKive
• Black-footed Cat Fact Sheet - ISEC

• Black-footed Cat Conservation Status and Distribution Map - IUCN Red List
• Black-footed Cat Detailed Information and Academic Reference List - IUCN Cat Specialist Group

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