Morphological Differences Between Andean and Pampas Cats
Prey is not the only thing these two cats have in common. They look similar. This makes it difficult to identify which cat is observed and makes correct estimations of populations problematic. This can be especially difficult when attempting to gain correct information from the observations of individuals that have seen one of these cats but are not aware to look for specific features to distinguish between the two.
| Andean cat | Trait | Pampas Cat |
|---|---|---|
| 2/3 of the total body length. Thick and blunt with 6–9 wide rings. | Tail | 1/2 of the total body length. Thin and tapered with 9 thin rings. |
| Maximum width of rings: 60mm | Tail rings | Maximum width of rings: 20mm |
| Distinctive lines on sides of eyes. Rounded tips of ears. | Facial features | If lines are present, they are brown and less dramatic. Triangular-tipped ears are present for most of this species. |
| Very dark or black | Nose | Light colored, generally pink |
| Yellow– and rust-colored or gray and black | Overall color | Cream, red, rust, and black in color |
| One consistent coat pattern | Pelt pattern | Three different coat patterns with different variations |
| Uniform coloration of the base color | Ear color | Patterned colored ears |
| Rings are not complete; stripes are spot-like in appearance | Front paws | Two or more well-defined, complete, black rings |
Read more about this topic: Andean Mountain Cat
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