^Click on photo for larger image^ OCELOT Felis pardalis

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Ocelots are nocturnal and diurnal, feeding mainly on the ground. Found in all tropical forests, rarely does the ocelot climb trees though it is an excellent climber. During the night, they tend to hunt along open trails, while during the day, the stay hidden within the deeper bush. This is the most comely seen of all the cats in Belize.

Ocelots feed on small mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. The Belizean name for the ocelot is the same as the margay "tiger cat". The name "ocelot" comes from the Mexican Aztec word "tlalocelot" meaning field tiger. Ocelots appear to be better adapted to habitat disturbance and can live in disturbed forest. But they can be found in a variety of habitats in Belize, from dry scrub to the dense forests. The ocelot is an endangered species throughout its range from the extreme southern United States to Argentina. The ocelot's fur is very beautiful and has been long sought after for fur coats. Fortunately, the United States banned importation of ocelot pelts in 1972.

KEY FACTS SIZE Length: 3 feet + 15" tail Weight: 35 lbs. BREEDING Reach Maturity: ? Mating: Non-seasonal Gestation: 70 days No. of Young: 2-4 cubs LIFESTYLE Habitat: Tropical forests.Solitary. Food: Ground-living mammals, fish, frogs, turtles Lifespan: ?