Prionailurus viverrinus, commonly known as the fishing cat, is native to South and Southeast Asia's wetlands. It has a stocky build, short legs, and a unique fur pattern with elongated spots and stripes. This nocturnal predator specializes in hunting fish, showcasing remarkable swimming abilities.

Prionailurus viverrinus, commonly known as the Fishing Cat, is native to South and Southeast Asia. Its geographical distribution includes countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and parts of Indonesia. The species predominantly inhabits the Terai region of the Himalayan foothills, the Brahmaputra and Ganges river basins, and the wetlands of the Sundarbans.

Fishing Cats inhabit wetland environments, including marshes, swamps, rivers, streams, mangroves, and tidal creeks. They are often found in areas with dense vegetation and water bodies, where they can hunt for fish, their primary prey. The climate in these regions is typically humid and tropical, with significant rainfall. The species is also known to inhabit areas with brackish water and can adapt to seasonal changes in water levels.

The Fishing Cat is a semi-aquatic mammal that plays a crucial role in its ecosystem as both a predator and a prey species. Its ecological niche involves hunting a variety of aquatic animals, including fish, frogs, crustaceans, and even small mammals and birds. The species is adapted to swimming and diving, with partially webbed feet that aid in catching prey in water. This adaptation allows it to occupy a unique ecological position compared to other felids, which are primarily terrestrial.