Clouded Leopard

Clouded leopards are listed as endangered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service under the United States Endangered Species Act. They are also classified as an Appendix I endangered species by CITES, which means that international trade is prohibited. They are protected from hunting in range countries, although wildlife laws are rarely enforced in most areas. 

Clouded leopards are a medium-sized cat named for the cloud-like spots on its coat. These provide camouflage in the dappled light of its forest habitat. They are able to climb upside down underneath tree branches, hang from branches with their hind feet, and even descend head first, like a squirrel. Several adaptations allow clouded leopards to achieve these amazing arboreal skills. Their legs are short and stout, providing leverage and a low center of gravity.

The clouded leopard is native to tropical rainforests throughout Southeast Asia and parts of China. While not as common, this species has been sighted in other areas such as grasslands or tropical dry forests. Just like every other creature, the clouded leopard plays a role in the ecosystem. This particular species' niche is keeping the population of other mammals in check, which is why it is a broad niche. The clouded leopard preys on animals of all sizes, from deer to birds, making its job easier.

A species with a broad niche, also called a generalist, is able to withstand numerous conditions. and can make use of a variety of different resources (for example, a heterotroph with a varied diet). If the temperature changes, the pH of the soil changes (plants have niches too), or resource availability changes, generalists are more likely to survive and do well compared to a species with a narrow niche, also called a specialist.

 Specialists, as the name implies, are able to withstand a more constrained set of conditions and often have unique adaptations specifically for the ecological niche they inhabit or has a limited diet. 

The clouded leopard has an advantage when it comes to hunting; its ankles can rotate backward so the cat can climb down a tree headfirst, climb upside down, and even hang from its back feet, leaving the powerful front paws free to snatch at prey. These cats can also ambush their prey from the treetops, landing on their target’s back and delivering one killing bite. Despite their small size, clouds can take down large hoofed animals with this method.