A small wild felid species native to Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia, representing the ancestral wild progenitor of domestic cats.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Diverse environments including forests, grasslands, mountains, and rocky areas with dense vegetation cover, ranging from sea level to alpine regions (0-3,000 meters elevation).
Ecological Role
Key mesopredator controlling small mammal populations; plays significant role in ecosystem balance and maintaining rodent population dynamics.
Morphology
SKIN COATDense fur with variable coloration - typically gray-brown with dark striped patterns, providing camouflage in woodland environments
LIMBS WINGSPowerful short limbs, retractable claws, agile climbing and hunting capabilities
HEAD SENSORYTriangular head, large pointed ears, excellent night vision with tapetal reflective layer, acute hearing up to 64 kHz
BODY STRUCTURECompact muscular body, average length 50-80 cm, weight 3-6 kg; similar build to domestic cats but with more robust musculature
