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Prionailurus viverrinus

Fishing Cat

MammalBest Season: Jan–Dec

Best locations

6

Expert creators

0

Field Reports (12 months)

0

Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) — wildlife photography in India

(c) Tim Bawden, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Tim Bawden

About this species

The Fishing Cat is a specialist aquatic predator — one of the few cats that voluntarily dives into water to catch fish. Found in wetlands, mangroves, and river systems, it is most reliably seen in Sundarbans and the wetlands of Odisha. Its double-layered, waterproof coat is an adaptation unique among small cats. Watch Fishing Cats in India's wetlands and mangroves. Rare aquatic cat — best locations, behaviour guide, and photography tips.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Prionailurus viverrinus
Category / family
Mammal · —
Best months to photograph
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Difficulty to spot
Moderate
Best locations
Chilika Lake Bird SanctuaryKeoladeo National ParkCoringa Wildlife SanctuaryKeibul Lamjao National ParkPobitora Wildlife SanctuarySundarbans National Park

Field Reports

0 total reports

No field reports yet for this species.

Best locations for Fishing Cat

Reserves and landscapes where our photographers reliably encounter this species, with links to place-specific guides.

OdishaChilika Lake Bird Sanctuary
0 creators here
RajasthanKeoladeo National Park
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Andhra PradeshCoringa Wildlife Sanctuary
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ManipurKeibul Lamjao National Park
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AssamPobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
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West BengalSundarbans National Park
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Wildlife Creators Specialising in Fishing Cat

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No specialists are listed yet — try our search for nearby creators.

Upcoming Trips Targeting Fishing Cat

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When and Where to Photograph Fishing Cat

The Fishing Cat is a specialist aquatic predator — one of the few cats that voluntarily dives into water to catch fish. Found in wetlands, mangroves, and river systems, it is most reliably seen in Sundarbans and the wetlands of Odisha. Its double-layered, waterproof coat is an adaptation unique among small cats. Watch Fishing Cats in India's wetlands and mangroves. Rare aquatic cat — best locations, behaviour guide, and photography tips.

Plan field days around Jan–Dec: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary.

Related species

  • Indian Rhinoceros
  • Nilgiri Tahr
  • Gaur
  • Sloth Bear
  • Assam Macaque
  • Western Hoolock Gibbon
  • Indian Fox
  • Golden Jackal
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