Among some of the rarest cat breeds in existence, there’s one who has the size and appearance of a sweet little angel baby but is considered the most deadly feline in the world.
Naia, one of only 10,000 endangered Black-Footed cats in the world, just broke a pretty significant record and it’s one for the books.
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As captioned by Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, this cutie turned 18 in February, “making her the oldest known black-footed cat currently in human care.”
If she continues to thrive, she’ll also claim the oldest BFC in history, which is an extraordinary feat—especially for an endangered species.
Weighing between 2.2-5.5 pounds, Black-Footed cats are some of the smallest, deadliest cats in the world. They’re adorable, but it’s a trap! Still, it doesn’t keep Naia’s fans from bestowing her with kitty compliments.
“Are we sure she isn’t cuddly? I have an 18-year-old cat with the same rbf,” on person joked. “My fave pouty pants. If not friend, why friend shaped?” another added.
Others confirmed, “Ms. Murder Mitts looks like she is huggable, but alas, she is not,” while another highlighted her allure, “I know this a lethal wild animal but, come on!”
Native to Africa, the Black-Footed Cat is said by the Felidae Conservation Fund to be extremely elusive, secretive, rarely seen, and difficult to trap. Though they live in dry, open habitats these nocturnal felines get their water from prey.
The skilled diggers are also good climbers (though they don’t prefer it) and spend up to 70% of their day hunting with the “sit-and-wait approach,” like a true killing machine. That’s where they get their “deadliest cat on earth” moniker!
As Tabby Cat lookalikes, these diligent hunters are a mirage. With their cuddly, kissable little faces, you’d never know how powerful they can be in the wild.
Luckily it’s to prey, not humans, but don’t you just want to pet her?!
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Maybe Naia isn’t your everyday snuggle bug, but at 18, she has a higher purpose educating the world about how amazing she and her fellow endangered felines truly are.
