NANTOU (TVBS News) — The Endemic Species Research Institute in central Taiwan has treated a very special leopard cat, TVBS reported on Monday (Dec. 12).
Leopard cat Lugu Bro lost one paw from an animal snap trap. Fortunately, it survived the injury. The researchers were delighted to see Lugu Bro thriving in the wild as he has grown larger and stronger. Scientists were concerned about its ability to catch prey in the wild.
The research institute released Lugu Bro into the wild last year after treatment and training. His tracker's battery drained and the center lost contact with him. This time, Lugu Bro was found in a chicken shed by the owner.
Leopard cats are the only living wild cat native to Taiwan and are currently endangered.
This year, 47 leopard cats were sent to the center, including 27 victims of road kills.
The institute believes that the increase in people's awareness of the leopard cat has increased the reports of casualties.
