Wed, Dec. 25: The Zoo will be closed for daytime admission and for Zoo Lights. Happy Holidays!

Ocelot

Ocelots once ranged through Arkansas and Louisiana in addition to Texas, but now fewer than 100 remain, in the southern tip of Texas. Habitat restoration is likely a key to saving this species in Texas. Ocelots are found in greater numbers in Mexico, Central and South America.

Stable

Threatened

Endangered

Animal Facts

Scientific Name

Leopardus pardalis

Range

Mexico, Central and South America, as well as the southern tip of Texas.

Location in the Zoo

Near lions and tiger

Cool Animal Fact

Unlike most other cats, ocelots can turn their ankle joints around, allowing them to climb down a tree head first.