Description:

The central stilt-cat (Grallacatus centralis) is an austrofeline cat endemic to the Australian continent. These animals were introduced to the continent by humans during the Anthropocene. These animals cause the extinction of several marsupials, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Over time, they begin to carve out a niche as medium-sized mesopredators, with their size limited by dingos, crocodiles, bear possums, and monitor lizards. The central stilt-cat is just one of these cats. These cats hold the same niche as jackals or coyotes. They have a shoulder height of 34 to 50 centimeters. They are often a brown color, but can be more gray in specific areas. This coloration is camouflage for both hunting prey and hiding from predators. Aside from these features, they are quite conservative compared to modern-day cats.

Distribution:

These animals live in the center of the continent. The center tend to be filled with tropical savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands in the Great Australian Plain.

Diet and Hunting:

These animals tend to prey on small rodents, marsupials, lizards, birds, and other small animals. They hunt by stalking and ambushing prey in the tall grass, while often chasing down larger prey. These cats also scavenge on the remains of dead megafauna that have often been killed by predators.

Reproduction:

These animals are generally solitary and must congregate to mate. Mating occurs year-round, but females breed only if they do not currently have offspring. To attract a mate, males mark territory by spraying pungent urine and rubbing on trees, rocks, and other objects. If a female is in estrus and finds the male's scent appealing, she often remains within his territory. Stronger scents tend to attract more females than weaker ones. Once paired, mating is often tense, with both cats biting, growling, and clawing at each other. Afterward, the male and female separate, and the female alone raises the young. She gives birth to approximately 6 to 8 kittens, though about half often die due to predators, disease, infanticide by males, or other hazards of the Australian environment.

Competition and Enemies:

These animals generally fight and compete with other animals. Dingos often hunt adults, kittens, and juveniles, while bear possums often kill them since the stilt-cats kill their cubs.