Clouded leopards are found in Southeast Asian countries like Nepal, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Sumatra. Normally found in tropical forests, these cats are well adapted for life in the trees. A clouded leopard’s tail is almost as long as their body and is used for balance while their short legs and large feet allow them to move easily across branches.

The majority of their prey consists of arboreal and terrestrial vertebrates, but it can vary geographically. Clouded leopards in India are known to feed on small deer and birds while those found in Borneo can prey upon pigs and monkeys. When eating, clouded leopards have been observed tearing meat by jerking their head up; this is a behavior that is typically found only in big cats.

Due to habitat loss, clouded leopard numbers are declining. In Sumatra, 65 to 80 percent of lowland forests have disappeared. And, although illegal, these cats are still hunted for their fur. Historically, clouded leopard skins were used in ceremonial jackets by tribal people in Taiwan. Even though they are no longer used in ceremonies, clouded leopard pelts have now become a status symbol.