DENNIS WONG New Straits Times 5 May 14;
HOPEFUL DISCOVERY: Sighting could mean mountain is home to species
KUCHING: THREE Bornean clouded leopards have been recently spotted on Mount Santubong here.
The discovery sees the Malaysian Nature Society Kuching branch calling for an immediate evaluation study at the site, as it could mean that the mountain was home to Sarawak's largest cat species.
Its chairman, Anthony Sebastian, said the sighting was of great significance and should lead to more attention being given to the iconic mountain.
"The clouded leopard is Borneo's top predator and the largest cat on the island.
"Despite this, the species is the smallest compared with others in the big cat family, which include tigers and lions."
Seven years ago, the government had gazetted the 1,410ha Mount Santubong National Park, 40km from here.
Anthony said previously, no wildlife was believed to inhabit the mountain, but studies had shown that there were four hornbill species and three otter species in the park.
"The discovery of the clouded leopards on Mount Santubong is an addition to Santubong's increasingly rich wildlife."
The Bornean clouded leopard, or Neofelis diardi, can grow up to 2m in length and weigh up to 25kg.
Locally known as entulu, the species is a highly endangered cat in the state.
Its habitat is severely threatened by hunting and loss of forest areas.
In February, surveyors carrying out preliminary work for the Santubong cable car project had spotted the clouded leopards on the mountain.
Anthony said unlike hornbills, which would be affected only by disturbances brought on by infrastructure development at higher parts of the mountain, the Bornean clouded leopard would be adversely affected by the cable car project.
"Before any further plans are to be made involving Santubong, it is practical for a study to be carried out to determine the requirements needed by clouded leopards on the mountain and determine measures that need to be put in place to ensure their survival."
He said the clouded leopard's bold markings on its fur made it one of the most beautiful wild cats in the world, as well as a tourist attraction in Kuching, also known as the "City of Cats".
Read more: 3 clouded leopards spotted in Santubong - General - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/3-clouded-leopards-spotted-in-santubong-1.587375#ixzz30nbp7uo2
