Where does the ocelot live?
The ocelot lives from the south-western United States to northern Argentina, up to 3,000 m, as well as on the islands of Trinidad and Margarita. It inhabits tropical forests, thorn forests, mangrove swamps and savannas. It prefers areas close to water, with dense vegetation and plenty of prey. It adapts well to its surroundings.
What does the ocelot eat?
The ocelot preys on small land mammals, such as armadillos, opossums and hares. It is typically active at twilight and at night, and tends to be solitary and territorial. It is good at climbing, leaping and swimming. After a gestation of two to three months, the female gives birth to young that stay with her for up to two years, then leave to establish their own home ranges.
Is the ocelot endangered?
The IUCN lists it as Least Concern, but it is threatened by habitat destruction, hunting and traffic accidents. Its range is very large, but various populations are decreasing in many parts of it.
