The Ocelot's scientific name, pardalis, literally means 'related to the leopard'. It has one of the most beautiful coats of all the cat family; this is the reason that it has now become an endangered species. The mass slaughter of these beautiful creatures to satisfy mankind's lust for fur along with deforestation in much of its habitat, has led to the cats virtual extinction in some of its range. Once inhabiting southern North America, Central America and South America - today the ocelot has almost disappeared form its range in the southern states of North America. It is reported that only 120 ocelot survive in Texas today. the ocelot is still to be found in forested areas In Central America and the northern countries of South America.

A nocturnal hunter, the ocelot prefers the forest floor, but will also sleep in the lower branches of trees. It is a strong swimmer, and will catch fish; other prey includes small deer, rabbits, rodents, reptiles, and birds. Ocelots live in pairs, and have a territory which extends for up to 3 square miles in area.