Ocelot

The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is a small mammal, one of nine species in the genus Leopardus.

Normally it lives in South and Central America, as far up as Mexico and a small part of southwestern United States. It has been reported as far north as Texas and in Trinidad, in the Caribbean. These fast cats eat small mammals, birds, fish, and snakes. They are very good swimmers.

Once hunted for its beautiful fur, the cat is now protected and listed as 'least concern' by the IUCN Red List. The cat is nocturnal and likes forests and dense vegetation. It is very territorial, and will fight to keep its territory. Like many cats, male ocelots mark their territory by spraying urine.

Their kittens grow slowly, staying with their mother for up to two years. They have to learn how to catch prey before they can be independent.

Although a "small cat", it is a good deal bigger than the others. The ocelot ranges from  in length, plus  in tail length, and typically weighs . Larger ones have been reported.Burnie, David & Don E. Wilson 2001. Animal: the definitive visual guide to the world's wildlife. New York City: Dorling Kindersley. ISBN 0-7894-7764-5Sunquist, Mel & Sunquist, Fiona 2002. Wild cats of the world. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. pp. 120–129. ISBN 0-226-77999-8 It is the largest of the generally dainty Leopardus wild cat genus.

 References 

Category:Felines
Category:Mammals of South America