Researchers from the National Game and Wildlife Directorate have documented an intriguing finding about Corsica’s famed striped creature, long spoken of in shepherds’ legends as the so-called cat-fox. Rather than being a mythic hybrid, they report that this animal represents a distinct breed within the cat family. The discovery comes after careful field work and genetic testing, lending credibility to stories shared by local communities on the island. The assertion is backed by ongoing observations and published notes from a respected scientific outlet, Phys.org, which has reported on the evolving understanding of Corsican wildlife.
For generations, Corsican shepherds have passed down tales describing a creature that shares traits with both cats and foxes, including its stealthy approach to flocks of sheep and goats and its habit of drinking milk from milking animals. While earlier opinions suggested the creature might be a myth or a variation of common wild cats, the latest evidence points to a separate lineage altogether. The researchers emphasize that folklore and science can converge, revealing how traditional narratives can sometimes anticipate real, identifiable wildlife species. This convergence has begun to reshape the way wildlife on Corsica is viewed within the broader framework of European mammals.
The first modern, verifiable encounters occurred in 2008 when witnesses in a local chicken coop reported an unfamiliar feline figure, followed by a more decisive sighting in 2019. In that year, a specimen displaying unique coloration and eye patterning was captured briefly for examination, after which the animal was released back into its habitat. Genetic analysis confirmed that the Corsican animal is not a standard domestic cat but a separate species within the cat family. The study of its genome has provided researchers with important clues about its evolutionary path and ecological niche, highlighting how isolated islands can foster distinct lineages within familiar animal groups. The finding stands as a reminder that island biodiversity often hides surprises that challenge long-standing classifications.
The name “Cat-Fox” reflects a blend of its appearance and the lore surrounding it. The creature measures roughly 90 centimeters from head to tail, and it carries a distinctive color pattern, including a dark tip on the tail and darker coloration on the hind legs. Its fur is thick and silky, a practical adaptation that assists in repelling ectoparasites such as fleas, ticks, and lice. This combination of physical traits and habitat preferences helps scientists understand how the animal survives in Corsican landscapes, where dense underbrush and rocky terrain provide shelter and hunting grounds. Ongoing field work aims to map its distribution, behavior, and interactions with native prey species, contributing to a clearer picture of how this cat-family member fits into the island’s ecosystem and how it may influence conservation priorities for Corsican wildlife. Citations: National Game and Wildlife Directorate, field reports, genetic analysis publications and Phys.org coverage.