Ocelot

The ocelot (*Leopardus pardalis*) is a medium-sized spotted wild cat native to the Americas, ranging from southern Texas and Mexico through Central America to northern Argentina.

The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is a medium-sized spotted wild cat native to the Americas, ranging from southern Texas and Mexico through Central America to northern Argentina. It is a nocturnal carnivore known for its distinctive coat pattern, strong climbing ability, and broad diet of small vertebrates. Globally, the species is listed as Least Concern, although some regional populations, including those in the United States, are endangered.

Description

The ocelot is a slender, medium-sized wild cat with a yellowish, tan, or orange coat marked by black spots, stripes, and rosettes. Its coat pattern is unique to each individual and helps with camouflage.

Distribution and habitat

Ocelots occur from southern Texas and Mexico through Central America and much of South America, reaching northern Argentina. They live in habitats such as tropical forests, grasslands, brush-covered areas, thornscrub, and other dense vegetation.

Behaviour and diet

Ocelots are mainly nocturnal and sometimes described as crepuscular. They hunt small prey including rodents, birds, reptiles, fish, frogs, and other small animals.

Conservation

The IUCN lists the ocelot as Least Concern because of its wide distribution and large overall population. However, numbers are declining in some areas, and U.S. populations are protected as endangered.