The Ocelot, which is locally called tigrillo, meaning ‘little tiger’, is a medium sized cat with an adult weight of approximately 9-14 kg. This cat species is probably best known for its beautiful rich and colourful coat. Its chain-liked blotches and spots are edged in black with a lighter coloured centre. The base colour varies depending on habitat, with fur being a rich yellow/cream in arid areas and darker yellow/brown in forest habitats.

Hunting mostly at night, the Ocelot’s main diet consists of rodents, such as, birds, frogs and snakes but it will also feast on larger animals, including, monkey and deer. In addition to being an excellent swimmer, the Ocelot has very good climbing skills, which is why they are often found sleeping in the lower branches of trees.

Territorial by nature, Ocelots live within an area of about 4 square miles with the female and male territory overlapping. Female Ocelots communicate by use of scent markings, which lets the male know when she is ready for mating. Vocal communication is also used. Mating is non seasonal with the gestation period approximately 70-80 days. Average litter sizes tend to be small at 1-2 cubs. The cubs will stay with their mothers until they are ready to establish their own territory. The lifespan of the Ocelot is approximately 20 years for those in captivity and 8-10 years for those living in the wild.

The Ocelot is an endangered species throughout its range. Fur trade and deforestation has led to the cat's virtual extinction in some parts. Although outside factors play a hugh part in the dwindling numbers of Ocelots, problems also exist within the cat species group. Small litter sizes, long gestation and growth rates as well as a high infant mortality rate have made it difficult for the Ocelot to sustain its own population growth.