The beautiful Formosan clouded leopard was declared extinct in 2013 after no sightings had been announced since 1983.
The leopard was discovered in Taiwan, and it provides hopeful news for animal lovers who once feared the worst for the species.
These elusive big cats are difficult to trap, but a group of rangers has been patrolling the area for years in the hopes of spotting the cat.
They were especially wary after hearing anecdotes about the leopard.
The Formosan clouded leopard is a subspecies of the clouded leopard, which has been listed as vulnerable since 2008 on the IUCN list.
Known for its striking beauty and grayish markings, this leopard only lives in Taiwan.
Considered sacred by the local Paiwan tribe, they called on authorities to stop logging to allow the leopard to come out of hiding.
The local tribe is also working with the authorities to prevent p.o.ac.hers and hunters from hurting this rare animal.
The Formosan cloud leopard has for a long time been a beautiful mystery.
Historical records are going all the way back to the 13th century recording the indigenous people bringing pelts to port cities to trade.
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