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{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2025}}{{Use British English|date=May 2025}}
{{Short description|Species of small wild cat}}
{{Subspeciesbox
| name = Iriomote cat
| image = Iriomote cat 1 (cropped).jpg
| image_caption = Iriomote cat
| status = CR
| status_system = IUCN3.1
| status_ref = <ref name=iucn>{{cite iucn |author=Izawa, M. |author2=Doi, T. |year=2015 |errata=2016 |title=''Prionailurus bengalensis'' ssp. ''iriomotensis'' |article-number=e.T18151A97215980 |doi=10.2305/IUCN.UK.2015-4.RLTS.T18151A50663049.en}}</ref>
| genus = Prionailurus
| species = bengalensis
| species_link = Leopard cat
| subspecies = iriomotensis
| authority = ([[Yoshinori Imaizumi|Imaizumi]], 1967)
| range_map = Prionailurus iriomotensis range.png
| range_map_caption = Iriomote cat range
}}

The '''Iriomote cat''' ('''''Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis''''') is a [[subspecies]] of the [[leopard cat]] that lives exclusively on the [[Japan]]ese island of [[Iriomote Island|Iriomote]]. It has been listed as [[critically endangered]] on the [[IUCN Red List]] since 2008, as the only population comprises fewer than 250 adult individuals, and is considered declining.<ref name=iucn/> As of 2007, an estimated 100–109 individuals were remaining.<ref name=Ministry_environment />

In [[Japanese language|Japanese]], it is called {{nihongo3|"Iriomote mountain cat"|西表山猫|'''Iriomote-yamaneko'''}}. In local dialects of the [[Yaeyama language]], it is known as {{nihongo3|"wild cat" or "forest cat"|ヤママヤー|'''yamamayaa'''}}, {{nihongo3|"that which shines in the forest"|ヤマピカリャー|'''yamapikaryaa'''}}, and {{nihongo3|"that which has flashing eyes"|メーピスカリャー|'''meepisukaryaa'''}}.<ref name="Imaizumi1994-Yamapika">今泉(1994), Pp.8–13, Pp. 144–147</ref><ref name=Togawa1972-1>戸川(1972), Pp.13–92</ref>

==Description==
[[File:Iriomote cat 2 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Facial close-up]]
The fur of the Iriomote cat is mostly dark grey and light brown, with lighter hair on the belly and insides of the limbs. Markings along the jaw are white.<ref name="Imaizumi_1994-7-48" /> The dark parts of the body consist of dark brown to black tabby markings on a lighter brown [[Agouti (coloration)|agouti]] background. There are two dark brown spots on each cheek. There are 5–7 stripes spanning from the forehead to the back of the head, however, unlike the leopard cat, the stripes stop before reaching the shoulders.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Ohara_2000 /> Dark brown to black tabby spots cover the flanks of the body, and there are 3–4 bands of irregular stripes on the chest.<ref name=Ohara_2000 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1991 /> The tail is dark brown; darker spots pattern the back side of the tail, whilst the underside of the tail is solid. The tip of the tail is dark.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 />

The tips of the ears are rounded, with black hair along the edge. There are no tufts of longer hair on the top of the ears. Adult Iriomote cats have an  [[Eyespot (mimicry)|ocellus]] (white eye-mimicking spot) on the back of each ear, much like those found on [[tiger]]s' ears.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> Young cats lack these marks, and even for adults, the spots will not be as white as those seen on other leopard cat subspecies.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 />

The Iriomote cat's eyes are a light amber colour.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> The nose is large and flat, with no fur covering the reddish-brown nose leather.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Ohara_2000 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1991 /> The paw ranges from {{cvt|29|-|37|mm}} wide, in contrast to the {{cvt|24|-|30|mm}} wide paw of a [[domestic cat]].<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 />

[[File:Iriomote cat face profile.jpg|thumb|Face profile]]
[[File:2017-01-29 Iriomote yamaneko in Iriomote-yasei-hogo-center 西表野生生物保護センターDSCF2418.jpg|thumb|A skeleton of an Iriomote cat at the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Centre]]
The skull is longer and narrower than that of a domestic cat. When compared to the leopard cat's skull, the Iriomote cat's is roughly the same size but thicker. Because of this, the Iriomote cat's brain is smaller; a male leopard cat's brain is about 42 grams, whereas a male Iriomote cat's brain is about 30 grams.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> The [[occipital bone]] of the skull and the auditory capsule are not connected.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1991 /> The [[mandibular symphysis]] is short.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Ohara_2000 />

Male Iriomote cats grow to be {{cvt|55|-|60|cm}} long and weigh {{cvt|3.5|-|5|kg}}. Females are smaller at about {{cvt|50|-|55|cm}} long and {{cvt|3|-|3.5|kg}}.<ref name=Red_2005>{{cite book |url=http://www3.pref.okinawa.jp/site/contents/attach/9962/honyuurui-shusei.pdf |script-title=ja:沖縄県の絶滅のおそれのある野生生物(レッドデータおきなわ)-動物編- |last1=沼田 |first1=眞 |last2=渡辺 |first2=景隆 |last3=畑 |first3=正憲 |year=2005 |publisher=沖縄県文化環境部自然保護課編 |pages=25–27 |language=ja |trans-title=Endangered Okinawan Animals (Red Data Okinawa) -Animal Edition- |access-date=3 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930023651/http://www3.pref.okinawa.jp/site/contents/attach/9962/honyuurui-shusei.pdf |archive-date=30 September 2007 }}</ref> Its tail is thick from base to tip and {{cvt|23|-|24|cm}} long.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-285-1 |publisher=Data House |year=1994 |pages=7–48}}</ref><ref name=Ohara_2000 /> It has a long body and short, thick limbs.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> Its neck is also thick, and its shoulders are muscular, though its jumping power is relatively weak.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 />

The Iriomote cat has six pairs of [[incisors]], two pairs of [[canine teeth]], four pairs of [[premolars]], and two pairs of [[molars]] for a total of 28 teeth. Compared to other cats, including small wild cats, the Iriomote cat is lacking one pair of premolars on the top jaw behind the canines.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> In addition to this, unlike most other subtropical mammals, Iriomote cats' teeth give details about their year-to-year history. It is expected that these details will help determine the age and behaviour of the cats.<ref name=Tooth_age>{{cite web |url=http://ryukyushimpo.jp/news/storyid-169649-storytopic-5.html |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコ、歯年輪で年齢判別 |author=琉球新報 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Cat, Tooth Rings Show Age |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221104006/http://ryukyushimpo.jp/news/storyid-169649-storytopic-5.html |archive-date=21 February 2014 }}</ref>

The [[anal gland]]s of the Iriomote cat surround the [[anus]]; this contrasts with other cat species', where they are inside the anus.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-285-1 |publisher=Data House |year=1994 |pages=119–157}}</ref>

==Distribution==
[[File: Iriomotejima ISS039.jpg|thumb|Map of Iriomote island]]
The Iriomote cat is [[Endemism|endemic]] to the [[Japan]]ese [[Iriomote Island]], which spans about {{cvt|290|km2}}.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=吉典 |script-title=ja:動物大百科１ 肉食類 |language=ja |trans-title=Encyclopedia of Animals 1: Carnivores |isbn=978-4-582-54501-2 |publisher=平凡社 |year=1986}}</ref><ref name=Ohara_2000>{{cite book |last=小原 |first=秀雄 |script-title=ja:動物世界遺産 レッド・データ・アニマルズ4 インド、インドシナ |language=ja |trans-title=World Heritage Animals: Red Data Animals 4 India and Indochina |isbn=978-4-06-268754-6 |publisher=講談社 |year=2000}}</ref><ref name=Imaizumi_1991>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=吉典 |script-title=ja:世界の動物 分類と飼育2 (食肉目) |language=ja |trans-title=Animals of the World: Types and Rearing 2 (Carnivores) |isbn=978-4-88622-061-5 |publisher=東京動物園協会 |year=1991}}</ref><ref name=Masuda_1996>{{cite journal |last1=増田 |first1=隆一 |title=Studies of Land Bridges and the Migration of Men and Other Animals along Them. Phylogeny and Evolutionary Origin of the Iriomote Cat and the Tsushima Cat, based on DNA Analysis |year=1996 |script-title=ja:遺伝子からみたイリオモテヤマネコとツシマヤマネコの渡来と進化起源 |language=ja |trans-title=Phylogeny and Evolutionary Origin of the Iriomote Cat and the Tsushima Cat, based on DNA Analysis |journal=地學雜誌 |volume=105 |issue=3 |pages=355–362 |issn=0022-135X |doi=10.5026/jgeography.105.3_354 |doi-access=free }}</ref><ref name=Center>{{cite web |url=http://www.biodic.go.jp/rdb_fts/2000/74-063.html |script-title=ja:絶滅危惧種情報(動物)- イリオモテヤマネコ - |author=環境省 自然環境局 生物多様性センター |language=ja |trans-title=Critically Endangered Species Information (Mammals) – Iriomote Cat |access-date=8 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923202306/http://www.biodic.go.jp/rdb_fts/2000/74-063.html |archive-date=23 September 2015 }}</ref><ref name=Shizenkan>{{cite web |url=http://www.sizenken.biodic.go.jp/rdb/txt/content/006.html |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコ |author=インターネット自然研究所 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Cat |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129035721/http://www.sizenken.biodic.go.jp/rdb/txt/content/006.html |archive-date=29 November 2014 }}</ref> Iriomote consists predominantly of low mountains ranging {{cvt|300–460|m}} in elevation with subtropical [[evergreen forest]], including extensive belts of [[mangrove]] along the waterways.<ref name=Izawa07>{{cite book |last1=Izawa |first1=M. |last2=Doi |first2=T. |last3=Okamura |first3=M. |last4=Nakanishi |first4=N. |last5=Murayama |first5=A. |last6=Hiyama |first6=T. |last7=Oh |first7=D. |last8=Teranishi |first8=A. |last9=Suzuki |first9=A. |year=2007 |chapter=Toward the survival of two endangered felid species of Japan |title=Felid biology and conservation conference 17–20 September: Abstracts |publisher=WildCRU |location=Oxford |pages=120−121 |editor1=Hughes, J. |editor2=Mercer, R. }}</ref> It is the smallest habitat of any wild cat species in the world.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-285-1 |publisher=Data House |year=1994 |pages=50–75}}</ref>

The Iriomote cat lives predominantly in the [[subtropics|subtropical]] forests that cover the island up to an elevation of {{cvt|200|m}}.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Shizenkan /><ref name=Imaizumi_2004>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:野生ネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-772-6 |publisher=Data House |year=2004}}</ref> It prefers areas near rivers, forest edges, and places with low humidity.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Ohara_2000 /><ref name=Red_2005 />

==Ecology and behaviour==
[[File:Iriomote yamaneko tree (cropped).jpg|thumb|Adult in a tree]]
[[File:Japan, Iriomote-jima - Iriomote cat 2014.webm|thumb|(video) Iriomote cat in the wild, 2014]]
Iriomote cats are [[Terrestrial animal|terrestrial]], but climb trees, go into the water and also swim.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Shizenkan /><ref name=Imaizumi_2004 /> They are [[nocturnal]] and especially active during [[twilight]] hours.<ref name=Imaizumi_1991 /><ref name=Center /> During daytime, they sleep in tree hollows or caves. They mark their [[territory (animal)|territory]] by [[urinating]] and [[defecating]] on rocks, tree stumps and bushes. Their home ranges vary from {{convert|1-7|km2|sqmi|||abbr=on}} in size.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Ohara_2000 /><ref name=Red_2005 />

===Home range===
[[File:Iriomote cat walk.jpg|thumb|Walking adult]]
Iriomote cats are usually solitary. Their home range varies seasonally and also individually, and is smaller during the mating season. In 1998 and 1999, a male and a female Iriomote cat were [[Radio telemetry|radio-tracked]] for 7 to 13 successive days in the western part of the island. Their home ranges overlapped extensively in all periods. The periodical home range of the male was {{convert|0.83|–|1.65|sqkm|sqmi|abbr=on}} in size, and the resident female's range was {{convert|0.76|–|1.84|sqkm|sqmi|abbr=on}}.<ref name=Center /><ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-285-1 |publisher=Data House |year=1994 |pages=75–117}}</ref><ref name=nakanishi05>Nakanishi, N., Okamura, M., Watanabe, S., Izawa, M., Doi, T. (2005). [http://www.bioone.org/doi/pdf/10.3106/1348-6160%282005%2930%5B1%3ATEOHOH%5D2.0.CO%3B2 ''The effect of habitat on home range size in the Iriomote Cat "Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis" '']. Mammal Study 30: 1–10.</ref>

Iriomote cats are [[Territoriality|territorial]].<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117 /> Home ranges of males and females overlap, and one to two females live within a male's home range.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117 /><ref name=Yamaneko_center /> Typically, home ranges of same sex cats will not overlap, but partial overlaps are seen.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117 /><ref name=Yamaneko_center /><ref name=Wildlife_2006 /> Often, these small overlaps are hunting grounds.<ref name=Wildlife_2006 /> It is thought that they patrol their territories for three to four days, marking and hunting as they go.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117 />

Young males and some adult cats are transient, i.e. wandering over the island and waiting for an open home range slot that they can occupy by marking this area.<ref name=Yamaneko_center /><ref name=Wildlife_2006 /> Female cats allow their young to stay in their home range and mark a new territory once the next breeding season comes.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Ohara_2000 />

===Diet===
[[File:Slaty-legged Crake ( Rallina eurizonoides).jpg|thumb|Slaty-legged crake]]
Iriomote cats are [[carnivorous]] and prey on various mammals, [[birds]], [[reptiles]], [[amphibians]], [[fish]], and [[crustaceans]]. They typically ingest {{cvt|400–600|g}} of food a day.<ref name=Imaizumi_2004 /> Other wild cats primarily hunt small mammals, such as [[rodents]] and [[rabbits]], but because there are no other carnivores to compete with the Iriomote cat on the island, there is no need for them to isolate themselves from the various habitats and food sources that are available. Thus, their diet is quite varied.<ref name=Wildlife_2006>{{Cite book |author=財団法人 自然環境研究センター |title=イリオモテヤマネコ BOOK |language=ja |trans-title=The Iriomote Cat book |publisher= 株式会社高陽堂印刷 |year=2006}}</ref>

Mammalian prey includes [[black rats]], [[Ryukyu flying fox]]es and young Ryukyu [[wild boar]]. Their prey also includes a wide range of birds, such as the [[Eastern spot-billed duck]], [[slaty-legged crake]], [[Eurasian scops-owl]], [[pale thrush]], and [[white-breasted waterhen]].<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1991 /><ref name=Red_2005 /><ref name=Center />
Reptiles include various types of snakes and [[Eumeces kishinouyei|Kishinoue's giant skink]].<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1991 /><ref name=Red_2005 /><ref name=Center /><ref>Sakaguchi, N., Ono, Y. (1994). [https://doi.org/10.1007%2FBF02347492 ''Seasonal change in the food habits of the Iriomote cat 'Felis iriomotensis' '']. Ecological Research 9 (2): 167−174.</ref> They are also known to hunt [[rice frog|Sakishima rice frogs]], [[yellow-spotted crickets]] and [[crabs]].<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1991 /><ref name=Red_2005 /><ref name=Center /> As their hunting grounds tend to be in [[swamps]] or on [[shore]]s, they sometimes swim and dive to catch water birds, fish, and freshwater prawns.<ref name=Imaizumi_2004 />
Seasonal dietary changes have been observed. They eat rats and frogs year-round, lizards in the summer and spring, and crickets and bats more often in the fall and winter.<ref name=Wildlife_2006 />

When eating birds that are larger than a [[dusky thrush]], most cat species will pluck the feathers and then eat them, but the Iriomote cat will eat even large birds whole, without removing the feathers.<ref name=Imaizumi_2004 /> Furthermore, unlike other cats, the Iriomote cat does not kill its prey immediately by breaking the [[spinal cord]]. Instead, it holds the animal in its mouth until it stops moving.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 />
<!-- 
It is estimated that water birds comprise about 60% of the cat's diet with black rats being its secondary source of food at about 10–30% of its diet.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117 /> Based on [[feces|stool]] samples, birds represent 60% of their diet, black rats 30%, insects 30%, lizards and frogs about 15–20%, bats 3–17%, and wild pig less than 1%. In addition, fish and crustaceans appear roughly 3–4% of the time.<ref name=Anma_2001>{{Cite book |last= 安間 |first=繁樹 |script-title=ja:琉球列島 生物の多様性と列島のおいたち |language=ja |trans-title=The Ryukyu Archipelago: Diversity of Animals and Island Development |pages=112–147 |isbn= 978-4-48601555-0 |publisher= 東海大学出版会 |year= 2001}}</ref> -->

===Reproductive behaviour===
During the [[mating season]], Iriomote cats become active during the day as well.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> Breeding females are more active than non-breeding ones during the late night and morning hours.<ref name=schmidt09>Schmidt, K., Nakanishi, N., Izawa, M., Okamura, M., Watanabe, S., Tanaka, S. Doi, T. (2009). [https://doi.org/10.1007%2Fs10164-008-0101-4 ''The reproductive tactics and activity patterns of solitary carnivores: the Iriomote cat'']. Journal of Ethology 27: 165–174.</ref> Outside the mating season the cats live in solitude, but when they begin breeding, they live together.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117 /> The mating season lasts from December to March, and females go into heat several times during this period, with the peak being in January and February.<ref name=Red_2005 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1994-75-117 /><ref name=schmidt09/>  In late February, a fasting period lasting approximately two weeks occurs. This time frame is notable, as it coincides with a peak in sexual excitement among females. Male and female cats always stay together at this time, and it is thought that [[fertilisation|conception]] happens during these two weeks.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 />

Between April and June, pregnant female cats give birth to 1–3 kittens in a tree hollow or cavern.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /><ref name=Yamaneko_center>{{cite web |url=http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/ym_about.htm |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコについて |author=西表野生生物保護センター |language=ja |trans-title=About Iriomote Cats |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190117174330/http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/ym_about.htm |archive-date=17 January 2019 }}</ref> The locations chosen for birthing and rearing are dry and have good ventilation.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> Kittens stay with their mother for about eleven months.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> They begin to become more independent during the fall and winter months. They stay in their mother's home range from anywhere between a few months and years.<ref name=Wildlife_2006 /> Kittens reach [[sexual maturity|maturity]] at twenty months after birth.<ref name=Ohara_2000 />

===Lifespan===
It is estimated that Iriomote cats live for seven to eight years in the wild, and eight to nine years in captivity.<ref name=Ohara_2000 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> Human influences, traffic accidents and [[animal trapping|traps]] may lower their lifespan to two to five years.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> In captivity, an Iriomote cat lived for an estimated 15 years and one month, the longest known lifespan of any Iriomote cat.<ref name=Yon_death>{{cite web |author=Ealey, M. |url=http://english.ryukyushimpo.jp/2011/04/12/220/ |title=Oldest Iriomote wildcat dies aged 15 years one month |publisher=Ryukyu Shimpo |year=2011 |access-date=9 May 2012}}</ref>

==Discovery==
[[File:Iriomote cat Stuffed specimen.jpg|thumb|A [[taxidermy]] specimen at the [[National Museum of Nature and Science]] in [[Tokyo]]]]
[[File:Iriomote yamaneko stuffed.jpg|thumb|A taxidermied Iriomote cat at the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Centre]]
The Iriomote cat was discovered in 1965 by {{nihongo|Yukio Togawa|戸川幸夫|Togawa Yukio}}, an author who specialised in works about animals. In 1967, it was first described by [[Yoshinori Imaizumi]], director of the zoological department of the [[National Museum of Nature and Science]] in [[Tokyo]].<ref name=Imaizumi_1967>{{cite journal |last1=Imaizumi |first1=Y. |year=1966–1967 |script-title=ja:琉球, 西表島産の山猫 (新属新種) について |language=ja |trans-title=A new genus and species of cat from Iriomote, Ryukyu Islands |journal=哺乳動物学雑誌 |volume=3 |pages=75–105 |issn=1884-393X |format=pdf |access-date=June 8, 2012 |url=https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jmammsocjapan1952/3/4/3_4_75/_pdf}}</ref>

Prior to its scientific discovery, the Iriomote cat was known locally by various names: {{nihongo3|"the cat in the mountain"|ヤママヤー|'''yamamayaa'''}}, {{nihongo3|"that which shines on the mountain"|ヤマピカリャー|'''yamapikaryaa'''}}. To distinguish between the Iriomote cat and other cats on the island, locals also gave other cats nicknames such as {{nihongo3||ピンギマヤ|pingimaya}} for stray cats and {{nihongo3||マヤ|maya}} or {{nihongo3||マヤグヮー|mayagwaa}} for house cats.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-8-13-144-147>{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-285-1 |publisher=Data House |year=1994 |pages=8–13, 144–147}}</ref><ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92>{{cite book |last=戸川 |first=幸夫 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコ：原始の西表で発見された〝生きた化石動物〟の謎 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Cat: the Mystery of the "Living Fossil" Discovered on Primeval Iriomote Island |publisher=自由国民社 | year=1972 |pages=13–92}}</ref> Others, however, believed that the Iriomote cat was a [[feral]] cat.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Imaizumi_1991 />

===Prior to specimen acquisition===
Based on information from local people, {{nihongo4|Tetsuo Koura|高良鉄夫|Koura Tetsuo}} from the [[University of the Ryukyus]] was able to capture a kitten in 1962, but did not get an adult specimen.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /> In 1964, {{nihongo4|Tokio Takano|高野凱夫|Takano Tokio}} from the exploration department of [[Waseda University]] informed Imaizumi of the rumours of a cat living in the mountains of Iriomote.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 />

In February 1965, Togawa visited the [[Yaeyama Islands]]. He had heard in [[Naha]] from a newspaper columnist that there were rumours of wild cats living on Iriomote.<ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 /> He at first assumed that, similar to reports of the extinct [[Japanese wolf]], people must have been mistaking escaped and [[feral]] house pets for wild animals. He spoke with colleague Tetsuo Koura, who knew of and believed there to be some truth to the rumours. Koura then entrusted Togawa with the task of acquiring evidence.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 /> Togawa then travelled to Iriomote to gather information for his own report and to collect information on the Iriomote cat and a specimen.<ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 />

Upon arriving on the island, Togawa learned that because there wasn't enough food on Iriomote, people would cook Iriomote cats that had been caught and use the meat in soup. Cats caught in traps would also be disposed of, which made acquiring samples difficult.<ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 />

Following these discoveries, he went to the hamlet of {{nihongo4|Amitori|網取部落|Amitori Buraku}} on the western side of the island. There, a middle school teacher who had worked under Koura said that he had caught one of the cats in a trap set for wild boar. He had sent the skin to Koura, but buried the rest of the body. Togawa dug up the remains and obtained the skull. He also found two faeces samples near the village, and was able to get a skin from a fisherman who lived in {{nihongo4|Inaba|イナバ部落|Inaba Buraku}}, a hamlet along [[Urauchi River]].<ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 />

He returned to Koura and sent the two skins, the faeces, and the skull to Yoshinori Imaizumi at the National Museum of Nature and Science, where {{nihongo4|[[The Mammalogical Society of Japan]]|日本哺乳動物学会|Nihon Honyū Dōbutsu Gakkai}} examined the remains.<ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 /> The analysis was performed on 14 March 1965.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> The results showed the cat to be either a new species or a new subspecies, but there weren't enough samples to confirm. They requested either a complete set of remains or a live specimen.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> Following the announcement, some members of the society believed the samples to show simple mutations, whilst others believed them to be the remains of wild cats that had previously been brought to and left on the island by foreign ships.<ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 />

===Live specimen acquisition to announcement===
In June 1965, Togawa returned to Iriomote with Koura to obtain a complete set of remains, a live specimen, and information regarding the cat's [[ecology]]. They brought box traps and [[Actinidia polygama|silvervine]] to aid their efforts in catching a live cat. According to hunters, though, only one or two cats per year were caught, and the number of remaining cats was probably quite low. Togawa did not expect to catch one alive.<ref name=Togawa_1972-93-138>{{cite book |last=戸川 |first=幸夫 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコ：原始の西表で発見された〝生きた化石動物〟の謎 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Cat: the Mystery of the "Living Fossil" Discovered on Primeval Iriomote Island |publisher=自由国民社 | year=1972 |pages=93–138}}</ref>

[[File:Mare falls.jpg|thumb|Maaree Waterfall]]
In May 1965, prior to Togawa's return to the island, a group of children from {{nihongo4|Ōhara Elementary School|大原小学校}} on a field trip to the southern part of the island found a weakened, injured male Iriomote cat at the base of the small {{nihongo4|Maaree Waterfall|マーレー滝|Maaree Taki}} on {{nihongo4|Haemita Beach|南風見田の浜|Haemita no Hama}}. The teacher in charge of the children took the cat. Another teacher preserved the pelt in [[formalin]] and buried the skeleton in a wooden box behind the school. Togawa exhumed the remains, and this cat became the prototype for the species.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Togawa_1972-93-138 /> In addition to this example, the scientists also were able to obtain the crushed skull of a kitten from the neighboring [[Yubu Island]] that was later reconstructed by Imaizumi.<ref name=Togawa_1972-93-138 />

In addition to researching the Iriomote cat, Togawa also looked into rumours of a larger cat on the island (see [[#Yamapikaryaa]]) and conducted an investigation.<ref name=Togawa_1972-93-138 /> Before returning to [[Tokyo]], he offered [[United States dollar|US$]]100 for any live Iriomote cat and US$30 for dead cats that were brought to him. With the aid of the [[Taketomi, Okinawa|Taketomi]] mayor and the {{nihongo4|[[Daily Yaeyama Newspaper]]|八重山毎日新聞|Yaeyama Mainichi Shinbun}}, he was able to publicise the offer on bulletin boards and in other ways.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 /> He also announced rewards for the rumoured large cat on the island: US$200 if brought in alive, US$100 for remains.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 />

Through these offers, he acquired two complete skeletons, two skulls, and three pelts that he brought back with him to Tokyo. One of the pelts was that which the elementary school children helped obtain, and it was confirmed to be that of an Iriomote cat. The sample from Yubu Island was small, and judgment was held back. A sample from [[Ishigaki Island]] was discovered to be a house cat.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 />

In January 1966, the body of an Iriomote cat that had been caught in a wild boar trap in the mid-basin of the [[Nakama River]] was sent to Koura at the University of the Ryukyus, but there was no more information regarding captures for some time after this.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 /> In December 1966, {{nihongo4|Hiroshi Kuroda|黒田宏|Kuroda Hiroshi}}, a hunter at the Nakama River's mid-basin, caught a live male cat, but it escaped immediately.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 /> He then caught another male cat soon after.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 />

On 15 January 1966, local hunters caught a young female Iriomote cat near {{nihongo4|[[Nakama Mountain]]|仲間山|Nakama-yama}}.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 /> The National Museum of Nature and Science planned on using funds intended for garden repairs to pay for the specimens, but the hunters who caught the cats expected US$1000–3000 per cat.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 /> At the persuasion of the director of the District Forestry Office, the hunters accepted an award within the budget as a "daily allowance" or "finder's fee".<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 />

During this time, the mayor of Taketomi was making negotiations with the {{nihongo4|[[Southern Japan Liaison Offices]]|南方連絡事務所|Nanpō Renraku Jimusho}} and the Ryukyu government. He travelled to [[Naha]] for these discussions, which covered the possibility of offering the two captured Iriomote cats to the [[Emperor of Japan|emperor]] with the stated purpose of increasing national knowledge about Iriomote and for the promotion of industrial development on the island. At the same time, the Taketomi town offices, under the premise of obtaining permission from the Ryukyu government to keep the cats, confiscated samples from the staff of the National Museum of Nature and Science and brought them back to their offices.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 />

With Togawa pressuring the newspapers and Yoshinori Imaizumi urging the Ryukyuan government and Southern Japan Liaison Offices through the [[Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology|Ministry of Education]], the Southern Japan Liaison Offices denied the possibility of giving the cats to the emperor, and the Ryukyuan government persuaded the mayor not to follow through with his plans. Finally, the specimens were delivered to the museum.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 />

The cats arrived at [[Haneda airport]] in March 1967.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176 /> Yoshinori Imaizumi kept them shortly until Togawa, having been entrusted by the museum to observe them, took charge of them for about two years.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Togawa_1972-177-242>{{cite book |last=戸川 |first=幸夫 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコ：原始の西表で発見された〝生きた化石動物〟の謎 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Cat: the Mystery of the "Living Fossil" Discovered on Primeval Iriomote Island |publisher=自由国民社 | year=1972 |pages=177–242}}</ref> The cats were then transferred to the museum for monitoring. The male died on 25 April 1973, and the female on 13 December 1975. The male's pelt was temporarily [[Taxidermy|stuffed]], the blood was sent off for [[chromosomal]] research, and the rest of the body was preserved in [[formaldehyde]]. The female was stuffed and put on display in the museum.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 />

In May 1967, The Mammalogical Society of Japan issued their third and fourth issues, announcing in English the discovery of a new genus of cat that was closely related to the primitive cat genus ''[[Metailurus]]''.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> The former genus name of ''Mayailurus'' stems from the word used for "cat" on Iriomote, ''maya-'', while ''-ailurus'' comes from Ancient Greek and also means "cat".<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> The subspecies name of ''iriomotensis'' means "from Iriomote".<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> The Japanese name of {{nihongo4|Togawa mountain cat|トガワヤマネコ|Togawa-yamaneko}} was proposed by Yoshinori Imaizumi, in honour of Togawa, who discovered the species, but Togawa turned down the request and instead supported the name {{nihongo4|'''Iriomote cat'''|イリオモテヤマネコ|Iriomote-yamaneko}} based on the Tsushima cat, which was also named after the location at which it was discovered. Koura agreed with Togawa, thus officiating the name.<ref name=Togawa_1972-13-92 />

==Classification and genealogy==
''Mayailurus iriomotensis'' was the [[scientific name]] proposed by {{nihongo4|Yoshinori Imaizumi|今泉吉典|Imaizumi Yoshinori}} in 1967 for the Iriomote cat. Imaizumi pointed out that, compared to other leopard cats, the Iriomote cat retained some especially primitive features. Judging from these characteristics, he estimated that the Iriomote cat evolved as a species sometime between ten million years ago in the [[Miocene epoch]] and three million years ago during the [[Pliocene epoch]]. He also thought that they shared many primitive characteristics with [[fossil]]s of the extinct genus ''[[Metailurus]]''.<ref name=Masuda_1996 /> He emphasised these points, stating that the Iriomote cat and ''Metailurus'' shared a common ancestor sometime between ten and five million years ago,<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /><ref name=Masuda_1996 /> and from that he deducted that the Iriomote cat's ancestors must have widened its range from mainland [[Asia]] to Iriomote and other areas beginning three million years ago.<ref name=Masuda_1996 /> It appears to be a very ancient species, a 'missing link', more closely related to ''[[Pardofelis]]'' and ''[[Profelis]]'' than any other extant species of [[Prionailurus]].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Leyhausen |first1=P. |last2=Pfleiderer |first2=M. |year=1999 |title=The systematic status of the Iriomote cat (Prionailurus iriomotensis Imaizumi 1967) and the subspecies of the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis Kerr 1792) |journal=Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research |volume=37 |issue= 3|pages=121–131 |doi= 10.1111/j.1439-0469.1999.tb00974.x}}</ref>

In contrast to Imaizumi's assertions about its unique characteristics, other researchers strongly disputed the idea that the Iriomote cat is its own species ever since its discovery. Investigations involving skulls and teeth, samples and living animals, and genetic research were conducted.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Masuda_1996 /> Because of these study results, it was subordinated under the genus ''[[Prionailurus]]'' as ''Prionailurus iriomotensis'' in 2005.<ref name=msw3>{{MSW3 Wozencraft |id=14000193 |pages=543|heading=Species ''Prionailurus iriomotensis''}}</ref>

The Iriomote cat's [[karyotype]], the restriction fragment length of the [[ribosomal RNA]] (rRNA), and [[molecular phylogenetic]] analyses of the [[mitochondrial]] 12S rRNA and [[cytochrome b]] have proven to be identical, or nearly so, to the [[Leopard cat|leopard cat's]].<ref name=Masuda_1996 /><ref name=Suzuki_1994>{{cite journal |last1=Suzuki |first1=Hitoshi |last2=Hosoda |first2=Tetsuji |last3=Sakurai |first3=Susumu |last4=Tsuchiya |first4=Kimiyuki |last5=Munechika |first5=Isao |last6=Korablev |first6=Vladimir P. |date=August 1994 |title=Phylogenetic relationship between the Iriomote cat and the leopard cat, Felis bengalensis, based on the ribosomal DNA |journal=The Japanese Journal of Genetics |volume=69 |issue=4 |pages=397–406 |issn=0021-504X |doi=10.1266/jjg.69.397|pmid=7946460 |doi-access=free }}</ref> The two cats are assumed to be extremely closely related, their differences being categorised as either intraspecies variations or individual [[mutations]]. Also, from the speed of cytochrome b's [[base-pair substitution]] and its diversity, it is estimated that the Iriomote cat diverged from the leopard cat around 180,000-200,000 years ago.<ref name=Masuda_1995>{{cite journal |author1=Masuda, R. |author2=Yoshida, M. C. |title=Two Japanese wildcats, the Tsushima cat and the Iriomote cat, show the same mitochondrial DNA lineage as the leopard cat ''Felis bengalensis'' |journal=Zoological Science |year=1995 |volume=12 |issue=5 |pages=656–659 |doi=10.2108/zsj.12.655|pmid=8590833|s2cid=31111378 |doi-access=free }}</ref> According to [[marine geology|marine geologists]], the [[Ryukyu Islands]] were connected to mainland Asia via a [[land bridge]] from about 20,000 to 240,000 years ago. Scientists believe that the Iriomote cat moved its range to the islands during this period.<ref name=Masuda_1996 /> Because of this, it is assumed that there is little [[genetic variety]] within the species.<ref name=Center /><ref name=Warren_1999>{{cite book |last1=Johnson |first1=W. E. |last2=Shinyashiki |first2=F. |last3=Menotti-Raymond |first3=M. |last4=Driscoll |first4=C. |last5=Leh |first5=C. |last6=Sunquist |first6=M. |last7=Johnston |first7=L. |last8=Bush |first8=M. |last9=Wildt |first9=D. |last10=Yuhki |first10=N. |last11=O'Brien |first11=S. J. |title=Evolutionary Theory and Processes: Modern Perspectives |chapter=Molecular Genetic Characterization of Two Insular Asian Cat Species, Bornean Bay Cat and Iriomote Cat |year= 1999 |pages=223–248 |doi=10.1007/978-94-011-4830-6_14 |isbn=978-94-010-6025-7}}</ref>

==Threats==
[[File:Warning signs for Iriomote cat.jpg|thumb|right|Sign warning motorists of animals, with a picture of an Iriomote cat]]
Destruction of habitat due to development, predation by dogs, traffic accidents, and traps set for wild boar and crabs all contribute to the decline in number of Iriomote cats.<ref name=Imaizumi_1986 /><ref name=Ohara_2000 /><ref name=Red_2005 /> During the second survey of the island, conducted from 1982–1984, it was estimated that 83–108 Iriomote cats lived on the island. The third survey, conducted from 1993–1994, estimated that 99–110 of the cats were on the island. During the fourth survey, conducted from 2005–2007, there were an estimated 100–109 remaining cats.<ref name=Ministry_environment>{{cite web |url=http://www.env.go.jp/press/press.php?serial=10060 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコ生息状況等総合調査（第４次）の結果について（お知らせ） |author=環境省 |language=ja |trans-title=(Fourth) Survey of the State of the Iriomote Cat's Habitat: Regarding the Results (notice) |access-date=10 June 2012}}</ref><ref name=Center /> The method of estimating the numbers differed between the third and fourth surveys, though; if the third estimate were to be revised, there would have been an estimated 108–118 Iriomote cats at the time, meaning that the population is shrinking over time.<ref name=Ministry_environment />

Along with traffic accidents, logging, and development of the swamplands, house pets are also causing problems. House cats and especially stray cats cause issues with competition, disease transmission, and [[genetic pollution]] due to [[hybrid (biology)|hybridisation]] between the two species. It is also feared that dogs prey on the Iriomote cats.<ref name=Red_2005 /><ref name=Center /><ref name=tropics>{{cite journal|author=伊津雅子, 阪口法明|author2=土肥昭夫|name-list-style=amp|year=2000|title=Recent conservation programs for the Iriomote cat Felis iriomotensis|journal=Tropics|volume=10|issue=1|pages=79–85|url=https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/tropics/10/1/10_1_79/_pdf|doi=10.3759/tropics.10.79|bibcode=2000Tropi..10...79L |doi-access=free}}</ref> The government has successfully eliminated the stray cat population on Iriomote.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.mongabay.com/2023/10/meet-japans-iriomote-and-tsushima-cats-ambassadors-for-island-conservation/ |title=Meet Japan's Iriomote and Tsushima cats: Ambassadors for island conservation |author=Annelise Giseburt |work=Mongabay |date=24 October 2023 |access-date=26 November 2023}}</ref>

[[File:Iriomote wildlife conservation centre.jpg|thumb|left|Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Centre]]
The primary fear stems from house cats that have become feral or partially feral, but there has been no monitoring of these interactions. Pressure from competition over food, contact with house cats that have contracted [[feline immunodeficiency virus]] (FIV) and other contagious diseases, as well as decrease in population due to hybridisation are all important issues with the Iriomote cat.<ref name=Red_2005 />

In June 1999, the Iriomote Wildlife Protection Centre conducted an investigation among 50 house and feral cats and 23 Iriomote cats in order to see if FIV was being transmitted within the populations. FIV was not seen in any of the Iriomote cats, but three of the house and feral cats tested positive.<ref name=Cat_AIDS>{{cite web |url=http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/iwcc.htm |script-title=ja:西表で猫エイズ初確認/イリオモテヤマネコへの感染懸念/環境庁などが野良猫調査/県、竹富町と対策協議へ*影響は全く未知数 |author=琉球新報 |language=ja |trans-title=First Confirmation of Feline AIDS on Iriomote/Fears of Transmission to Iriomote Cats/EPA Surveys Strays/Okinawa Prefecture, Taketomi Town to Discuss Counter-Measures*Number Affected Unknown |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805015945/http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/iwcc.htm |archive-date=5 August 2017 }}</ref> Because of the fears regarding transmission of the disease, starting in 2001, Taketomi Town enacted the ''Cat Breeding Ordinance'' which required all residents to register their pet cats. In June 2008, the ordinance was revised to include mandatory FIV testing and vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and microchipping. A new limit to the number of pets allowed per owner was also added.<ref name=Desex>{{cite web |url=http://ryukyushimpo.jp/news/storyid-133305-storytopic-1.html |script-title=ja:飼い猫の避妊義務化 イリオモテヤマネコ保護 |author=琉球新報 |language=ja |trans-title=Desexing of House Cats Becomes Mandatory; Preservation of Iriomote Cats |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129022221/http://ryukyushimpo.jp/news/storyid-133305-storytopic-1.html |archive-date=29 November 2014 }}</ref>

Furthermore, the [[cane toad]], which secretes a poisonous liquid from glands in its ears, has also appeared on the island. In order to prevent further contamination of Iriomote, residents of Ishigaki Island began extermination measures in 2008.<ref name=IWCC_Crisis>{{cite web |url=http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/ym_kiki.htm |script-title=ja:ヤマネコにせまる危機 |author=IWCC |language=ja |trans-title=Crisis Approaching Iriomote Cats |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222070226/http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/ym_kiki.htm |archive-date=22 February 2014 }}</ref><ref name=Invasive>{{cite web |url=http://www.y-mainichi.co.jp/news/15157/ |script-title=ja:外来生物次々と侵入 広がる生態系への影響 |author=八重山毎日新聞 |language=ja |trans-title=Invasive Species Come One After Another; The Broadening Ecological Influences |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-date=22 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722231834/http://www.y-mainichi.co.jp/news/15157/ }}</ref>

==Conservation==

===Status===
Since 2008, the Iriomote cat has been categorised as "critically endangered" by the [[International Union for Conservation of Nature|IUCN]].<ref name=iucn/>

The Iriomote cat has been designated a natural monument by the [[Okinawa Prefecture|Okinawa]] government.<ref name=Togawa_1972-139-176>{{cite book |last=戸川 |first=幸夫 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコ：原始の西表で発見された〝生きた化石動物〟の謎 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Cat: the Mystery of the "Living Fossil" Discovered on Primeval Iriomote Island |publisher=自由国民社 | year=1972 |pages=139–176}}</ref> On 15 May 1972, along with the recovery of Okinawa, it was nationally recognised as a [[Monuments of Japan#Natural Monuments and Special Natural Monuments|natural monument]]. On 15 March 1977, it was given special status amongst natural monuments, and in 1994 with the ''Species Protection Act'', it was designated as a {{nihongo4|Specified National Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora|国内希少野生動植物種|Kokunai Kishō Yasei Dōshokubutsu-shu}}.<ref name=Kato_1995>{{cite book |last=加藤 |first=陸奥雄 |script-title=ja:日本の天然記念物 |language=ja |trans-title=Natural Monuments of Japan |isbn=978-4-06-180589-7 |publisher=講談社 |year=1995 |pages=622–623}}</ref><ref name=Rare_animals>{{cite web |url=http://www.env.go.jp/nature/yasei/hozonho/list_domestic.pdf |script-title=ja:国内希少野生動植物種 |author=環境省 |language=ja |trans-title=National Rare Species |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120620202308/http://www.env.go.jp/nature/yasei/hozonho/list_domestic.pdf |archive-date=20 June 2012 }}</ref> This act was adopted on 28 January and enacted on 1 March.<ref name=Ministry_nature>{{cite web |url=http://www.env.go.jp/press/press.php?serial=8648 |title=哺乳類、汽水・淡水魚類、昆虫類、貝類、植物 I 及び植物 II のレッドリストの見直しについて |author=環境省自然環境局野生生物課 |language=ja |trans-title=Mammals, Brackish Water and Fresh Water Fish, Insects, Shellfish, and Plants I Plants II Regarding Changes to the Red List |access-date=10 June 2012}}</ref>

===Projects and activities===
In 1977, [[Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh|Prince Philip]] wrote a letter addressed to Crown Prince [[Akihito]] regarding the preservation of the Iriomote cat. The report attached to the letter written by Professor Leyhausen suggested outlawing any further migration to the island, as well as banning the cultivation of the land.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> In response, Crown Prince Akihito said that he wished for a way that would allow for the preservation of the cats and the continued habitation of people on the island. He also explained that the prime minister at the time, [[Takeo Fukuda]], was considering the implementation of a wildlife sanctuary on Iriomote.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 />

[[File:Iriomote yamaneko warning sign.jpg|thumb|left|Sign warning motorists of Iriomote cats. The number is used in reporting sightings of the cat.]]
In 1972, the National Museum of Nature and Science prepared for researching the ecology of Iriomote cats, and in November 1973 the [[World Wide Fund for Nature]] and the [[Ministry of the Environment (Japan)|Ministry of the Environment]] conducted a joint preliminary investigation regarding the cat's ecology,<ref name=Ministry_environment /><ref name=Imaizumi_1994-7-48 /> and from 1974 the Ministry of the Environment conducted a comprehensive investigation that lasted three years. After that, there were three more investigations beginning in 1982, 1992, and 2005.<ref name=Ministry_environment />

In 1979, the EPA began a three-year-long feeding operation in order to increase the survival rate of kittens,<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> but these actions have received criticism.<ref name=Ohara_2000 />

Since the Iriomote cat's discovery, various investigations have taken place. In 2006, automatic cameras and radio telemetry were used in order to understand the cats' state of life. Pathological tests regarding the contagiousness of diseases were also conducted, and tests on faeces and food leftovers were also done. They also compiled records of cat sightings by locals and tourists.<ref name=Wildlife_2006 />

Part of the Iriomote's cat range was designated as {{nihongo4|Iriomote Ryukyu Government Park|西表政府立公園|Iriomote Seifu-ritsu Kōen}} on 18 April 1972. With the [[History of the Ryukyu Islands#Post-war occupation|US's return of the Ryukyu Islands to Japanese control]] on 15 May, it became [[Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park]], and in March 1991 11,584.67 [[hectares]] of the island was designated the {{nihongo4|Iriomote Forest and Ecological Preserve|西表島森林生態系保護地域|Iriomote-jima Shinrin Seitaikei Hogo Chiiki}} in order to protect the natural environment of the islands.<ref name=Ministry_basic>{{cite web |url=http://www.env.go.jp/park/iriomote/intro/basis.html |script-title=ja:西表石垣国立公園 基礎情報 |author=環境省 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park: Basic Information |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120120044938/http://www.env.go.jp/park/iriomote/intro/basis.html |archive-date=20 January 2012 }}</ref><ref name=Kyushu_forest>{{cite web |url=http://www.rinya.maff.go.jp/kyusyu/okinawa/sinrinkanrisyo/hogotiiki/index.html |script-title=ja:西表島森林生態系保護地域（保全利用地区・保存地区） |author=九州森林管理局 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Forest and Ecological Preserve (Complete Area, Preservation Area) Information |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-date=4 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130204054642/http://www.rinya.maff.go.jp/kyusyu/okinawa/sinrinkanrisyo/hogotiiki/index.html }}</ref> Despite these efforts, not enough land within the cats' preferred habitat of less than 200 m above sea level was included. In 1995 the {{nihongo4|Iriomote Wildlife Preservation Center|西表野生生物保護センター|Iriomote Yasei Seibutsu Hogo Sentā}} was established to increase preservation work, enforce research, and to increase understanding of the cat's ecological needs.<ref name=Center />

[[File:Zebra zone at iriomote.jpg|thumb|right|"Zebra zone" strips and inclined ditches on an Iriomote road]]
Since the US returned control of the Ryukyu Islands to Japan in 1972, development on Iriomote continued with finances from the Okinawan mainland. In 1977, a prefectural road was built that circles half of the island, which has led to a few Iriomote cat deaths every year due to traffic accidents.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> The Ministry of the Environment as well as the governments of Okinawa and Taketomi Town began installing road signs to warn people of Iriomote cats crossing the road, tunnels beneath the road for their safe crossing, zebra zones which create loud noises when cars ride over them, wide ditches on the sides of roads, and ditches on the side of the road that are inclined on one side in order to improve the preservation of the cats.<ref name=Center /><ref name=Protect_cats>{{cite web |url=http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/iwcc.htm |title=イリオモテヤマネコを守る！～IWCCの取り組み |author=西表野生生物保護センター |language=ja |trans-title=Protect the Iriomote Cats! ~IWCC's Efforts |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805015945/http://iwcc.a.la9.jp/iwcc.htm |archive-date=5 August 2017 }}</ref> However, many residents have objected to restrictions on land cultivation and improvement brought about by the measures in place to protect the Iriomote cat and other species on the island.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 />

In 2023, visitor caps were imposed for the island, limiting tourists to 1,200 a day, or 33,000 a year. This is a significant cut from the average 300,000 a year that visited before the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Japan|COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/iriomote-okinawa-japan-overtourism-intl-hnk/index.html |title=Japanese island to impose tourism cap to protect native wild cat |author1=Emiko Jozuka |author2=Lilit Marcus |work=CNN |date=4 April 2023 |access-date=13 February 2025}}</ref>

===In captivity===
There have been a handful of Iriomote cats kept in captivity. A five-week-old male kitten that had been separated from its mother was found on 14 June 1979. He was named Keita and was kept at the [[Okinawa Zoo]] until he died of old age at approximately thirteen years and two months of age.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> A female specimen was also kept at the [[National Museum of Nature and Science]]. She was believed to have been approximately nine years and seven months old when she died.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-119-157 /> On 6 August 1996, a male kitten that would later be known as Yon was taken into care at the Iriomote Wildlife Protection Centre after being involved in a traffic accident.<ref name=Yon_death />

===Yon===

====Discovery and hospitalisation====
[[File:Iriomote yamaneko-yon.jpg|thumb|right|The taxidermied body of "Yon". He was hit by a car on 6 August 1996 then rehabilitated at the Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Centre. He died on 9 April 2011 at the estimated age of fifteen years and one month, the longest confirmed lifespan of any Iriomote cat.<ref name=Yon_death />]]
[[File:Iriomote Yamaneko-w48 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Yon (W-48) as an adult.]]
On 6 August 1996, a young Iriomote cat was involved in a traffic accident near Nadara Bridge on the northern part of the island. He weighed 1.6 kg and was assumed to have been born in early March, making him about five months old. It is possible that he had just been separated from his mother. The next morning, he had regained consciousness, but he wasn't able to regulate his body temperature due to the serious injuries he had received. He was transferred to Ishigaki Island at 9:00 to receive medical care at Ishigaki Veterinary Clinic. He spent 24 days under their care.<ref name="Yon">{{cite book |last=西表野生生物保護センター |title=W-48: イリオモテヤマネコよんの歩み |language=ja |trans-title=W-48: Yon the Iriomote Cat's Progress |type=brochure}}</ref>

Following the accident, he couldn't move on his own, but he regained his ability to walk while on Ishigaki. He was brought back to the Iriomote Wildlife Preservation Centre for rehabilitation on 31 August. Originally labelled W-48 since he was the forty-eighth confirmed sighting of an Iriomote cat on the western part of the island, he was eventually given the name Yon.<ref name="Yon" />

====Rehabilitation====
By 2 September, Yon weighed 1.9 kg. Despite his progress, his caretakers noticed a tendency for him to turn to the right because of the effects of his accident.<ref name=Yon />

From the beginning, Yon's caretakers took careful measures to avoid acclimation to humans so that one day he could be released back into the wild. Only three staff members were allowed to feed him directly. Other people, including centre staff, were only allowed to view him via video camera monitoring. The media were also prohibited from taking direct photographs.<ref name=Yon />

From the time he was discharged until 3 February 1999, Yon's rehabilitation was restricted to a room within the centre. Thin logs were used to make a jungle gym so that he would be able to practice walking, jumping, and climbing trees. Rice plants were also grown in his room as a substitute for grass that cats use to help regurgitate. Once he was healthy enough, he was moved to an outdoor cage where he lived until his health began deteriorating on 20 December 2010.<ref name=Yon />

====Death====
On 20 December 2010, Yon was found to be curled up and unmoving near a dried stream. He was brought into the centre's rehabilitation room, where it was discovered that he had [[pulmonary edema]], which had nearly killed him; however, he was able to eat by the next day and gradually got better. He was unable to walk for the remainder of December, though by the end of January he had regained this ability and, during February and March, he improved enough to be able to walk up and down stairs. However, his condition then took a turn for the worse, and he died on the night of 9 April at an estimated fifteen years and one month old. He weighed 3.5 kg and was 78.5 cm long. He is the oldest Iriomote cat on record.<ref name=Yon />

====Influence on research====
Yon was the first Iriomote cat to be kept for an extended period of time, the only one to be saved after an accident, and the first to go through rehabilitation. Other Iriomote cats that were rescued either died immediately or shortly after being brought in for care.<ref name=Yon />

Though he was never returned to the wild, the recorded observations of Yon are extremely important regarding Iriomote cat preservation. Every day, records were taken including what he did at what time, weight, and anything else of note. Because of difficulties in researching Iriomote cats in the wild, observations of Yon are currently the best example of the cats' natural behaviour. There are also very few cases of the cats being cared for by people, so records of his health care may help injured and sick Iriomote cats in the future.<ref name=Yon />

==In culture==
[[File:20130501 JTA276 JA8597.jpg|thumb|A [[Japan Airlines]] plane with [[livery]] representing ''Pikaryaa'', the cat mascot]] 
[[File:Iriomote Cat Statue mangrove.jpg|thumb|Statue of an Iriomote cat on the Nakama bridge, Taketomi]]
In July 2010, the [[Taketomi, Okinawa|Taketomi]] Tourist Association invited residents to create a design for a local mascot. A Komi Elementary School sixth grader's design, which was based on the Iriomote cat, was chosen. The island of Iriomote is pictured on the mascot's chest. It was named in the same manner it was designed; in August 2010, the name {{nihongo|"Pikaryaa"|ピカリャ～}} was chosen based on the submission of an Ishigaki resident who drew inspiration from the local nickname of the cat, ''yamapikaryaa''.<ref name=Pikarya_name>{{cite web |url=http://painusima.com/t10namaebosyu.htm |script-title=ja:竹富町マスコットキャラクター 名前が決定しました！ |author=竹富町観光協会 |language=ja |trans-title=Taketomi's Mascot's Name is Picked! |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100909153854/http://painusima.com/t10namaebosyu.htm |archive-date=9 September 2010 }}</ref>
The town of Taketomi initiated an "Iriomote Wild Cat Day" ({{nihongo3|イリオモテヤマネコの日|Iriomote Yamaneko no hi}}) in 2015.<ref>{{cite web |title=Taketomi Town to create "Iriomote Wild Cat Day" |url=http://english.ryukyushimpo.jp/2015/10/07/23766/ |website=Ryukyu Shimpo - Okinawa, Japanese newspaper, local news |access-date=8 January 2023 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコの日制定 「4月15日」を竹富町 |trans-title=Establishment of Iriomote cat day "April 15" in Takemi town |url=https://www.okinawatimes.co.jp/articles/-/19078 |website=Okinawa Times |date=25 September 2015 |access-date=8 January 2023 |language=ja}}</ref> In July 2016, Taketomi signed a partnership with [[Tsushima, Nagasaki|Tsushima]] based on their common endemic wild cats. Tsushima hosts the [[Tsushima cat]], another leopard cat subspecies.<ref>{{cite web |title=竹富町・対馬市友好都市協定締結について |url=https://www.town.taketomi.lg.jp/soshiki/seisakusuishin/1646189248/ |website=Taketomi town |access-date=8 January 2023 |language=ja}}</ref>
The island also has several statues representing the Iriomote cat. In the south-east of the island, spanning across the [[Nakama River]], the Nakama bridge is guarded on each side by two stone statues of the cat in various positions. And in 2017, the town of Taketomi revealed two new bronze statues, one in a rest area on the west coast of Iriomote Island, and the other at the beginning of a bridge in the North of the island.<ref>{{cite web |title=イリオモテヤマネコ銅像除幕式 - やいまニュース |url=https://yaimatime.com/yaimanews/17809/ |website=Yaima Time |access-date=8 January 2023 |language=ja |date=15 April 2017}}</ref>

==Yamapikaryaa==
In general, names such as ''yamapikaryaa'' are used in reference to the Iriomote cat, but some locals claim to have seen another type of cat on the island. It is described as being twice as large as a domestic cat, with a tail that is 60 cm long and a coat pattern that is different from what the Iriomote cat displays. It has been sighted several times.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-8-13-144-147 /> Locals have given it several nicknames. In the neighborhoods of Sonai and Komi they call it {{nihongo3||クンズマヤー|kunzumayaa}} and {{nihongo3||トウトウヤー|toutouyaa}}, respectively, and on Aragusu Island they call it {{nihongo3||ヤマピカリャー|yamapikaryaa}}. It is thought to be different from a house cat, stray cat, and Iriomote cat.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-8-13-144-147 /><ref name=Okinawa_museum>{{cite web |url=http://www.museums.pref.okinawa.jp/museum/issue/report/image/iriomote/Iriomote4.pdf |script-title=ja:西表島総合調査報告書 |author=沖縄県立博物館 |language=ja |trans-title=Report on Comprehensive Survey of Iriomote Island |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118015710/http://www.museums.pref.okinawa.jp/museum/issue/report/image/iriomote/Iriomote4.pdf |archive-date=18 January 2012 }}</ref>

In 1965, Togawa spoke with a local hunter who claimed to have killed a large cat with fur like a tiger's. He disposed of the body, and Haemi on the southern part of the island, where the body was disposed of, was searched.<ref name=Togawa_1972-93-138 /> The hunter said that, until ten days prior to the interview, the cat's skeleton was still where he had left it, but the recent rains had washed it away.<ref name=Togawa_1972-93-138 /> He described that cat as having a shoulder height that reached an adult human's knee, a tail that was 60 cm long, a body twice as large as a house cat's, and greenish striped fur.<ref name=Togawa_1972-93-138 />

On 2 June 1982, the [[Yomiuri Shimbun]] published an article about ''yamapikaryaa''. An experienced boar hunter claimed to have seen yamapikaryaa about ten times in the mountains around Mount Dedou. He also said that he caught and ate one once. On another occasion, he said he saw an adult female yamapikaryaa with a kitten.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-8-13-144-147 />

Other articles regarding ''yamapikaryaa'' have also been published, including on 14 September 2007. Professor {{nihongo4|Eiyuu Akiyoshi|秋吉英雄|Akiyoshi Eiyuu}} of [[Shimane University]], who was staying on Iriomote in order to research fish, spotted a cat larger than the Iriomote cat with a long tail and spots. He saw the cat on {{nihongo4|Sakiyama Peninsula|崎山半島|Sakiyama Hantō}} on the seldom-visited western part of the island.<ref name=Yamapikarya>{{cite web |url=http://ryukyushimpo.jp/news/storyid-30074-storytopic-5.html |script-title=ja:伝説の生物「ヤマピカリャー」？ 西表で目撃相次ぐ |author=琉球新報 |language=ja |trans-title=The Legendary "Yamapikaryaa"? One Sighting After Another on Iriomote Island |access-date=10 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140113160515/http://ryukyushimpo.jp/news/storyid-30074-storytopic-5.html |archive-date=13 January 2014 }}</ref>

{{nihongo4|Tadaaki Imaizumi|今泉忠明|Imaizumi Tadaaki}}, on the other hand, spoke with a hunter in 1994 who had the skull of what he believed was a large wild cat. Tadaaki Imaizumi determined that it was a house cat.<ref name=Imaizumi_1994-8-13-144-147 />

==References==
{{Reflist|2}}

==Further reading==
*{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=吉典 |script-title=ja:動物大百科１ 肉食類 |language=ja |trans-title=Encyclopedia of Animals 1: Carnovores |isbn=978-4-582-54501-2 |publisher=平凡社 |year=1986}}
*{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=吉典 |script-title=ja:世界の動物 分類と飼育2 (食肉目) |language=ja |trans-title=Animals of the World: Types and Rearing 2 (Carnivores) |isbn=978-4-88622-061-5 |publisher=東京動物園協会 |year=1991}}
*{{cite book |last=小原 |first=秀雄 |script-title=ja:動物世界遺産 レッド・データ・アニマルズ4 インド、インドシナ |language=ja |trans-title=World Heritage Animals: Red Data Animals 4 India and Indochina |isbn=978-4-06-268754-6 |publisher=講談社 |year=2000}}
*{{cite book |last=加藤 |first=陸奥雄 |script-title=ja:日本の天然記念物 |language=ja |trans-title=Natural Monuments of Japan |isbn=978-4-06-180589-7 |publisher=講談社 |year=1995 |pages=622–623}}
*{{cite journal |last1=増田 |first1=隆一 |title=Studies of Land Bridges and the Migration of Men and Other Animals along Them. Phylogeny and Evolutionary Origin of the Iriomote Cat and the Tsushima Cat, based on DNA Analysis |date=June 1996 |script-title=ja:遺伝子からみたイリオモテヤマネコとツシマヤマネコの渡来と進化起源 |language=ja |trans-title=Phylogeny and Evolutionary Origin of the Iriomote Cat and the Tsushima Cat, based on DNA Analysis |journal=地學雜誌 |volume=105 |issue=3 |pages=355–362 |issn=0022-135X |doi=10.5026/jgeography.105.3_354 |doi-access=free }}
*{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:イリオモテヤマネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Iriomote Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-285-1 |publisher=Data House |year=1994}}
*{{cite book |last=今泉 |first=忠明 |script-title=ja:野生ネコの百科 |language=ja |trans-title=Wild Cat Encyclopedia |isbn=978-4-88718-772-6 |publisher=Data House |year=2004}}
*{{cite journal |last1=Suzuki |first1=Hitoshi |last2=Hosoda|first2=Tetsuji |last3=Sakurai |first3=Susumu|last4=Tsuchiya |first4=Kimiyuki |last5=Munechika |first5=Isao |last6=Korablev |first6=Vladimir P. |date=August 1994 |title=Phylogenetic relationship between the Iriomote cat and the leopard cat, Felis bengalensis, based on the ribosomal DNA |journal=The Japanese Journal of Genetics |volume=69 |issue=4 |pages=397–406 |issn=0021-504X |doi=10.1266/jjg.69.397|pmid=7946460 |doi-access=free }}
*{{cite journal |vauthors=Masuda R, Yoshida MC |title=Two Japanese wildcats, the Tsushima cat and the Iriomote cat, show the same mitochondrial DNA lineage as the leopard cat ''Felis bengalensis'' |journal=Zoological Science |year= 1995 |volume=12 |issue=5 |pages=656–9 |doi=10.2108/zsj.12.655|pmid=8590833 |s2cid=31111378 |doi-access=free }}
*{{Cite book |author=財団法人 自然環境研究センター |title=イリオモテヤマネコBOOK |language=ja |trans-title=The Iriomote Cat BOOK |publisher= 株式会社高陽堂印刷 |year=2006}}
*{{Cite book |last= 安間 |first=繁樹 |script-title=ja:琉球列島 生物の多様性と列島のおいたち |language=ja |trans-title=The Ryukyu Archipelago: Diversity of Animals and Island Development |pages=112–147 |isbn= 978-4-48601555-0 |publisher= 東海大学出版会 |year= 2001}}
*{{cite journal |last1=Imaizumi |first1=Yoshinori |year=1966–1967 |script-title=ja:琉球, 西表島産の山猫 (新属新種) について |language=ja |trans-title=A new genus and species of cat from Iriomote, Ryukyu Islands |journal=哺乳動物学雑誌 |volume=3 |pages=75–105 |issn=1884-393X |format=pdf |access-date=June 8, 2012 |url=https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jmammsocjapan1952/3/4/3_4_75/_pdf}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Prionailurus bengalensis iriomotensis|Iriomote cat}}
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/wildfacts/factfiles/41.shtml BBC 2008: ''Iriomote cat'']
* [https://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/05/world/asia/05wildcat.html New York Times: ''As a Japanese Island Grows Less Remote, a Wildcat Grows More Endangered'', February 2008]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071024132141/http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/08/070829%2Drarest%2Dcat.html National Geographic : ''Rare Japanese Wildcat Edging Closer to Extinction'', August 2007]
* [https://iwcc.jp/english　Iriomote Wildlife Conservation Center] website

{{Carnivora|Fe.}}
{{Portal bar|Biology|Mammals|Animals|Cats|Japan}}
{{Taxonbar|from=Q376135|from2=Q19829419}}
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[[Category:Prionailurus]]
[[Category:Endemic fauna of the Ryukyu Islands]]
[[Category:Endemic mammals of Japan]]
[[Category:Mammals described in 1967]]
[[Category:Critically endangered fauna of Asia]]
[[Category:Subspecies]]