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Ghost Cat of Libya: Desert's Hidden Secret Revealed
24 Jun
Summary
- Rare sand cats, adapted to desert, found thriving in Libya.
- Field research faced dangers from smuggling networks and gunfire.
- Study published February 2026 documents cats at 13 Sahara sites.
A study published in February 2026 reveals that Libya's southwestern deserts may be a significant, previously unrecognized stronghold for sand cats, the world's only felid adapted to true desert conditions. Initially, a 2017 video by Mohammed Almuntasir was the sole evidence of these elusive animals in Libya.
Over eight years, Almuntasir collaborated remotely with zoologist Firas Hayder. Despite fieldwork dangers from smuggling networks and gunfire, they documented sand cats at 13 sites. Researchers also noted the species' role in controlling rodent and venomous snake populations.
The findings suggest Libya's southwest harbors greater biodiversity than previously understood, potentially serving as a vital refuge for threatened species like the sand cat, dama gazelle, and cheetah.
