Sunda Clouded Leopard (Neofelis diardi) Classification

Subspecies

The clouded leopards on the islands of Sumatra and Borneo were first described in 2006 as Sunda Clouded Leopards when genetic analysis showed sufficient differentiation from Mainland Clouded Leopards.

In addition, the Sumatran and Bornean cats were distinct enough to be described as separate subspecies:

1. Neofelis diardi diardi (Sumatra and Batu islands)

2. Neofelis diardi borneensis (Borneo)

Coat pattern differences between the Mainland and Sunda Clouded Leopards:

Mainland: larger cloud markings with few inner spots

Sunda: smaller cloud markings with many inner spots

Reference: Kitchener et al. 2017. A revised taxonomy of the Felidae. The final report of the Cat Classification Task Force of the IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group.

Conservation & Research

The global conservation status for the Sunda Clouded Leopard is Vulnerable (VU) with a decreasing population primarily due to habitat loss.

The following organizations are dedicated to research and conservation of Mainland and Sunda Clouded Leopards:

• • Borneo Projects
  • Sumatra Projects

Please support these organizations with their important work if you can. No matter the size of your contribution, every bit helps!

Trips to see Clouded Leopards

The following organizations offer tours to places in Asia where you are likely to see Clouded Leopards in their natural habitat. These companies offer small group experiences, support conservation projects, and indicate their trips are environmentally and ethically responsible:

• Cat Expeditions – Cats of Borneo Photo Tour
• Royle Safaris – Borneo Wildlife Tours
• Royle Safaris – Clouded Leopard Expedition

Always bear in mind that sightings of any particular animal in its natural environment are not guaranteed and the experience of guides will greatly enhance your success.

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