Our Wild Cat – The Ocelot

What are Ocelots?

In Trinidad and Tobago there is only one wild cat native to our shores and that is the Ocelot (Scientific name: Leopardus paradalis). It was once found on both of our islands, but now it is only found in Trinidad. Although the Ocelot is considered a wild cat, it is quite small in size ranging between 68 centimetres and 145 centimetres and weighs between 18 and 40 pounds. These majestic wild cats are the largest predatory land mammals in Trinidad, putting it at the top of the food chain. It has black spots with tan or reddish fur, like a Leopard. It is found throughout Tropical and Sub-tropical forests ranging from North America to South America.

Figure 1: showing an Ocelot on a log (Stock 2021)

What is their status?

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Ocelots are listed under the “Least Concern” category, meaning that their existence is not at risk. However, in Trinidad and Tobago it is estimated that the population of Ocelots is about 150 mature individuals and declining which makes it an endangered species locally. It is clear that the Ocelot population is being affected primarily by human activities. They are facing habitat loss, illegal hunting, and trafficking. Habitat loss is due to deforestation and agriculture. The constant demand for raw materials and the need for land for food production has resulted in the declining trend of the Ocelot population. The Ocelot is protected in Trinidad under Appendix I of the Convention of the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and is listed as an Environmentally Sensitive Species but hunting, although illegal, continues to this day. Lastly, Ocelots are considered to be an exotic animal, and can be trafficked around the world as pets. This results in juveniles being taken from their habitats and therefore the population does not increase or grow.

Figure 2: showing an Ocelet being trafficked (Mongabay 2021)

What can we do?

The best thing we can do at an individual level is talk. Talk to your friends and family, especially those who hunt, to raise awareness about this wild cat. As an apex predator is extremely important to our ecosystem and food webs. In addition, “if you see something, say something”. It is illegal to hunt, kill or capture Ocelots and there are government policies in place to charge these individuals, but it is rarely implemented. Therefore, making an eyewitness report or calling the authorities if you have accidentally injured and animal could make a significant difference in the survival of this species in Trinidad. You can make a difference by protecting our Wildlife. 


Figure 3: showing an Ocelet and her cub at the Emperor Valley zoo (Joshua Cooper 2021)


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