The Chinese mountain cat is known by several other names, such as the Chinese desert cat, pale cat, grass cat and pale desert cat. Chinese mountain cats are closely related to the wildcat and jungle cat and as such, are slightly larger and heavier than domestic cats with thick coats. Its fur is sand colored with black rings on its tail. The name Chinese desert cat is inaccurate, as these cats prefer to live in China's forests.

As nocturnal hunters, these cats prefer to hunt rodents, pikas and birds.

Chinese mountain cats are hunted for their fur and also are threatened by deforestation. The IUCN currently lists the Chinese mountain cat as vulnerable.

Click here to learn more about the Chinese mountain cat and how you can help its conservation.