Second Young Ocelot Discovered at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

Rio Hondo, TX – After discovering a female ocelot kitten in March, wildlife biologist Dr.
Hilary Swarts, reported another new young ocelot has now been discovered, this time a
male. He was recently trapped on Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge and his coat
pattern did not match that of any previously known ocelots from the refuge’s collection of
trip camera photos. He is estimated to be 12-14 months old and appears healthy. At this
age he has transitioned from kitten to juvenile status, although he will stay with his mother
for up to another year before going out on his own. With limits on equipment, staffing and
access to private lands, censusing such an elusive cat species is challenging. The fact
that two young ocelots remained undetected for almost a year opens the possibility that
there could be more ocelots in the area that have not yet been identified. The current
number of known ocelots on the refuge is now 12, with 5 females and 7 males. The
current estimated number of ocelots in Texas remains less than 50.
To boost the genetics of the refuge's ocelot population, the US Fish and Wildlife Service is
working with Mexico to bring an adult female ocelot to Texas within the next year.
Preliminary results of studies on several Mexican ocelot populations show they are
numerous enough to spare a breeding female that will boost the population in the U.S.
The public plays an important role in keeping this endangered wild cat in the Rio Grande
Valley. “The public can contribute to our knowledge of ocelots by watching for ocelots
throughout the valley,” says Swarts. The public is encouraged to report any possible
sightings of live or dead ocelots to the refuge by calling 956-748-3607, or after hours 956-
784-7520.
To learn more about ocelots in south Texas, visit the refuge’s website
www.fws.gov/refuge/laguna_atascosa.