Asmita Pageni
The fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) is a globally threatened small cat species with a discontinuous distribution in South and Southeast Asia. In Nepal, fishing cats are distributed in the lowland Terai region, with records from five protected areas: Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Parsa National Park, Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, and Shuklaphanta National Park. Outside protected areas, they are also known from natural wetlands and fish ponds in the districts of Bara, Nawalparasi, and Kapilvastu. The fishing cat is categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List globally, Endangered nationally, and is listed under Appendix II of CITES. While the total population size remains unknown, the species is believed to have a decreasing population trend across its range.
Camera trap provides information on behavioural activity in addition to population data. Image captured at Chitwan NP. ©Rama Mishra / Terai Fishing Cat Project Nepal.
Although fishing cats are confirmed to inhabit Nepal's lowland region, scientific studies on the species are very limited. Conservation efforts are underway but are inadequate to cover all its range areas. In this light, this project aims to explore the status of fishing cats, assess threats, and initiate conservation activities in Parasi district (Nawalparasi West). Despite confirmed fishing cat presence, this district has seen a notable absence of efforts to understand and address the challenges faced by the species in this region. This work will bridge gaps by providing new information on the local fishing cat population, identifying threats to their survival, and implementing targeted conservation interventions.
Camera trap image of fishing cat in its natural habitat at Chitwan NP. ©Rama Mishra / Terai Fishing Cat Project Nepal.
Through camera trapping and questionnaire surveys, we will ascertain the fishing cat population and assess local threats to their survival in the area. The project will encourage active participation of local people by training them in camera trapping methods and involving them in field surveys. People outside protected areas seem to be less aware of the conservation needs of the fishing cat, with some even unaware of its presence. Through community outreach and school programs, we will conduct extensive awareness-raising campaigns to educate local people and students about fishing cats. The involvement of the local community, stakeholders, and the public, who live in close proximity to fishing cat habitats, is the first and foremost key step in any conservation activities. It is expected that these campaigns will foster a positive attitude among local people towards fishing cats and their habitat conservation, leading to reduced threats and increased appreciation for this feline species.
Header: The flood plains of Narayani River in Parasi district makes an ideal habitat for fishing cat. ©Sabin Adhikari / WILD CARE Nepal.