Pallas Cat
Eats
They are carnivores and prey upon small rodents and birds. These cats are crepuscular hunters, meaning they hunt mostly during dawn and dusk.
Lives
Pallas Cats live in grassland plains without trees in Asia up to 13,000 feet in elevation. of Iran, southern Asia, and western China.
Behavior
Description
Pallas Cats, or Manuls, are unique small cats adapted for survival in extreme temperatures. Their flat foreheads and low-set ears help them hide while hunting, and their pupils close into small circles, distinguishing them from other cats. With a thick, shaggy coat that can withstand temperatures as low as -60ºF, they stay warm in frigid environments. Their long, bushy tails provide balance and additional warmth, making them perfectly suited to their cold habitats!
Did you Know?
Pallas Cats have a very flat forehead and low ears allow them to peek over bushes and rocks without exposing themselves to prey.
How can I Help?
Pallas Cats used to be hunted for their fur, but are now a legally protected species. They are regarded as beneficial to the environment now because they feed on agricultural pests, such as mice and rats. For AZA (Associate of Zoos and Aquariums) and within the SSP (Species Survival Plan) a plan is being put into place that will serve to maximize genetic variation within the captive population.