Rare leopard cat found in Chitral, dies of injuries

PESHAWAR, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Feb, 2026) A rare leopard cat found in Broz village of Lower Chitral and initially believed by locals as snow leopard cub, had died of injuries after remaining under treatment for around four days.

The leopard cat was found by locals of Broz village on February 12, 2026 and was handed over to Wildlife Department in injured condition, informs DFO Wildlife Chitral, Farooq Nabi.

Given the ecological importance of snow leopard in northern Pakistan, officials treated the report urgently. Members of Village Conservation Committee, wildlife watchers and field experts reached the site swiftly and conducted a physical examination.

The field experts while examining the morphological features of the injured feline, confirmed that the wild species is not snow leopard cub, but a leopard cat, Farooq told APP.

The leopard cat was shifted to Veterinary hospital Chitral for medical check ups and treatment, he added.

During examination, the wild cat was diagnosed injured due to broken spinal cord either due to fighting or falling from the hill, DFO shared.

After remaining under treatment for a couple of days, the leopard cat succumbed to her injuries and died, Farooq Nabi informed.

He said it is a good development from conservation point of view that leopard cub has been found in Chitral district, reflecting rich biodiversity of wild species in this hilly terrain serving as habitat for rare snow leopard and Markhor (wild goat).

Timely reporting by locals also depicts their seriousness and cooperation in protection and conservation of wild species in the area, he added.

Conservationists note that although smaller than snow leopards, leopard cats play an important ecological role.

Director Snow Leopard Foundation Pakistan (SLF), Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz says research shows leopard cats in northern Pakistan primarily feed on rodents, particularly species from the Muridae family, helping control crop pests and reduce disease risks in rural areas.

Habitat loss, hunting and illegal wildlife trade continue to threaten leopard cats across parts of Asia, he added.

Dr Ali Nawaz also emphasised the need for scientific monitoring, habitat protection and community awareness to support wildlife conservation.