1. Characteristics of Water Cats
Water cats are mammals that live in water. Their body is approximately 40 to 70 cm long and weighs 1 to 4 kg. The water cat's body is streamlined, with thick skin and ear canal valves that allow it to breathe underwater and hear high-frequency sounds. The water cat's front and hind limbs are long and powerful, allowing it to swim freely in water. Their tails are long and bushy, which helps them maintain their balance.
The hair of aquatic cats is thick and dense and comes in different colors, including brown, black, gray, etc. They usually hunt fish, turtles, shellfish, crabs, etc. in water. Aquatic cats are solitary animals, usually active at night.
2. Distribution of water cats
Water cats are widely distributed, primainly in North America, Europe and Asia. In North America, they are found primarily in the cold water river systems of Canada and the United States. In Europe, they are found mainly in Scandinavia and northern Russia. In Asia, they are found in China, Mongolia, North Korea, Japan and elsewhere.
Water cats are protected animals and are extinct or in very small numbers in many areas. The water cat's habitat is typically located in isolated mountains and wilderness areas and is less disturbed by human activities.
3. Behavioral Characteristics of Water Cats
Water cats are nocturnal animals and are usually active at night. They hunt in water and can dive underwater to find food. Aquatic cats are solitary animals and rarely gather together. Aquatic cats have large territories, generallyon land and in water.
During mating, aquatic cats purr and fight briefly. After mating, the female water cat will build a small nest near the water and give birth to her young inside. After the babies are born, the water cat takes them to the water and teaches them to swim and hunt.
4. Living Environment of Water Cats
Water cats live mainly in freshwater lakes, rivers and swamps. They need clear water and abundant aquatic plants for food and nourishment. The habitat area of water cats is gradually shrinking. Affected by invasive vegetation from the south and human activities, their living environment is becoming more and more unstable.
With the disruption of human activities, the threats faced by aquatic cats are also increasing. Their habitats have been affected by human activitiessuch as water pollution and fishing, as well as damage caused by the construction of dams, hydroelectric plants and wastewater treatment projects. Although wild water cat populations have started to rebound in some areas, human efforts are still needed to ensure the survival of this rare animal.