Everything started with an elusive big cat captured on our cameras. Not a tiger this time, but an Harimau Kumbang according to locals there, in Sumatra. The proper Harimu kumbang, also known as black panther or Sikumbag in the Minang language, would have been quite impressive as the species has been extinct in Sumatra for almost a century now. 🐈‍⬛

So what is it? After a pretty exciting week of investigation, our partner biometrio.earth gave us their verdict: this pretty animal is in fact a Melanistic Asian golden cat, also called harimau kumbang for its color haha.🔬

Often overshadowed by bigger distant cousins, like the tigers, the Asian golden cat is one of Asia's rarest cats. The species is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. The Melanistic specimen is the result of a rare genetic variation.

Coming back to his surnames, Sikumbang is also used to describe individuals or families in specific contexts. For instance, Ai Farida, director of our local NGO RPL, told us the story of how her father was once the Datuk (chief) of a suku (clan) called sikumbang. His suku was renowned for its bravery and expertise in silat Minangkabau, a well-known martial art from West Sumatra. ✍🏽

Silat Harimau (Tiger Silat) is a special movement within silat Minangkabau where practitioners move close to the ground, crouching and crawling like a tiger or panther stalking prey. The posture emphasises strength in the legs, balance, and sudden explosive attacks, just like a predator ambushing. Hand positions often mimic tiger and panther claws. Techniques involve raking, grabbing, and tearing motions similar to how tigers or panthers attack. 🥋

Ai's dad's suku was skilled at this, known for employing “tiger and panther tactics” in the early days to defend the village where they lived.

We can’t wait for the next visit of Harimau! 💚

#agroforestry #tiger #Indonesia #rewilding #Sumatra #biodiversity

N.B: This news post has been deliberately left unlocalized to avoid the risk of poaching and protect wildlife.