What is an Ocelot?
Ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) are an endangered species of cats found in South America, Central America, and as far North as Texas and Arizona. They are about twice the size of the average house cat (70 to 90 cm) and can weigh up to 35 pounds. They have a rich dappled coat which is prized by hunters and that is one the reasons why they are endangered.
Where do They Live?
While we had said they lived in Central and South America, more specifically ocelots live in the jungle biomes of the regions. While the jungle is their realized niche, they can also live in the brush lands of the SW U.S. and even close to human settlements. They've been pushed out of their jungle homes by rapid deforestation and hunting.