Animal Facts

The Ocelot goes by many names, including "dwarf leopard" and McKenney's wildcat, the first because of its appearance and stature, and the second for one of its principal habitats. Ocelots are a widespread and thriving species, and they are found in much of South and Central America, with a few sightings in the southern U.S. Originally an endangered species from 1972 until 1996 because they were killed for their luxurious fur, ocelots have become a species of "least concern" since 1996, with a population of several hundred thousand throughout the Americas. Many sub-species are scattered throughout the forests of South America, and they often live in harmony with their relatives, jaguars and leopards.

Ocelots range from 27 to 39 inches (68 to 100 centimeters) in length, with tails that can reach up to a foot and a half long. They weigh between 18 and 40 lbs (8 to 18 kg), although much larger individuals have been sightered. They have sleek, smooth fur, medium-sized rounded ears, and relatively large front paws. They have distinctive spots, with coats that vary from reddish-brown to grey, marked with their typical black rosettes. Many times, the spots-- especially those on the back-- blend together to form irregular stripes and bands. Single white spots, called ocelli, are found on the backs of their ears and give them their names.

Ocelots are nocturnal and territorial, and will even fight to the death to protect their dens. Mostly solitary creatures, these animals have large and generally non-overlapping hunting areas that they mark regularly. Ocelots have diverse diets, and prey on creatures including small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, crabs, birds, and fish. Ocelots have excellente vision, especially night vision, to better their hunting prowess.

Like other wild cats, ocelots occassionally crop up as pets, the most notable of which being one by the name of Babou that traveled with Salvador Dali. The musician Gram Parsons also kept one in his house in Florida. Ocelots also crop up often in history with the Moche people in ancient Peru, who worshipped these felines and often depicted them in their artwork.