Meet the Ocelot

The ocelot gets its name from the Mexican Aztec word “tlalocet” which means field tiger.

It is the most often seen cat in Belize. This beautiful feline is endangered, largely because of its luxurious coat. Fortunately the US banned imports of ocelot pelts in 1972.  But, this magnificent cat is still at risk because of loss of habitat due to deforestation and agricultural expansion.

Ocelots are active during the day and night. Even though it is an excellent tree climber, the cat prefers to spend its time on the ground, hunting small mammals on open trails or deep brush during daytime.

Check out this video of an ocelot taken near Ambergris Caye a few months ago