Fishing Cat
Prionailurus viverrinus
About the Fishing Cat
The fishing cat is a medium-sized wild cat adapted to wetland habitats. It is roughly twice the size of a domestic cat, with a stocky build, short legs, and a distinctive pattern of dark spots and stripes on a grey-brown coat. Its name comes from its primary hunting technique — it scoops fish out of water with its partially webbed paws. It also hunts frogs, crustaceans, and water birds. Its presence in Wilpattu is a testament to the health of the park's wetland ecosystem.
Wilpattu Significance
Fishing cats are present in Wilpattu but rarely seen, making them a prized sighting. They are most active along the edges of villus, especially at dawn and dusk. The park's extensive villu system provides ideal fishing cat habitat. They are more often heard than seen — their call is a distinctive, harsh meow that carries across the water.
Conservation Status
Vulnerable (IUCN). Wetland destruction is the primary threat. Wilpattu's protected villu system provides critical habitat. Sri Lanka has one of the most significant remaining populations.
Best Season to See
Dry season (May-September) when villus edges are more accessible.
Best Locations in Wilpattu
- Lunuwewa Villu edges
- Kokkare Villu
- Mahaweva Villu margins
Viewing Tips
- 1Focus on the edges of villus, especially where reeds and overhanging vegetation meet open water
- 2Dawn and dusk are the best times — they are crepuscular hunters
- 3Look for movement at the water's edge — they hunt by scooping fish onto the bank
- 4They use the same territories regularly — your naturalist may know a resident individual
- 5Listen for their distinctive call — a harsh meow unlike any other cat
Photography Tips
- A fishing cat emerging from reeds with a fish is a world-class wildlife image
- Be patient near known fishing cat areas — they are active but cautious
- Use a 400mm+ lens to maintain distance while getting frame-filling shots
- Early morning mist over the villu with a fishing cat on the bank is the shot to aim for
Did You Know?
The fishing cat's scientific name, Prionailurus viverrinus, means 'saw cat' (referring to its saw-like premolars) and 'like a civet' (referring to its civet-like appearance). It is one of only two cat species that regularly hunts in water — the other is the tiger.
Ready to see the Fishing Cat in the wild? Book a Wilpattu safari with expert naturalists who know exactly where and when to find them.