Encountering a "Nest of Fur Balls Wearing Masks" with Leopard Print Patchwork, Netizens Exclaim: "Do Not Touch! It's the Desert Butcher"

A man in China discovered a nest of peculiar creatures with black and white striped faces, like they're wearing masks, but their bodies are covered in leopard-like patterns. Baffled by their strange appearance, the man posted photos online, and numerous users warned him not to touch them.

Mr. Li from Gansu Province, China, recently encountered a nest of animals with patterned fur on their faces and bodies while out in a field. Intrigued by their unusual looks, he took photos and videos with his phone and shared them on WeChat, asking others to identify the creatures. The photos reveal animals with black and white stripes across their faces, resembling a mask, while their bodies feature leopard-like spots, making them look like patchwork animals.

Upon seeing the images, some netizens exclaimed in astonishment, cautioning Mr. Li against touching these animals simply because of their unique appearance. They identified them as marbled polecats, a species under second-class protection in China.

Marbled polecats are primarily found in West Asia and Inner Mongolia. They feed on rodents, desert lizards, small birds, and other small animals. Because of their ability to climb trees and dig burrows, marbled polecats are skilled hunters and are sometimes referred to as "desert butchers."