Ocelots

Little Cat, Big Problem

When it comes to cats at zoos, most people think Lions and Tigers. Here at the Houston Zoo, we hope people remember our Ocelots too.

Easily recognized by their beautiful spotted coat and about twice the size of an average housecat, ocelots are critically endangered here in Texas. Once ranging through most of the state in areas heavily wooded or dense bushy areas, there are currently only about 80 to 120 individuals remaining in wild – about 35 of those remaining live in or near the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in Cameron County. Those that do live outside the Laguna Atascosa Refuge, live in isolated “islands” of brushland in the lower Rio Grande Valley.

The largest threat to ocelots in Texas has been rapid urbanization. As lands are cleared away for agriculture and construction, ocelots are losing their habitat. In fact, more than 95% of natural ocelot habitat has been destroyed in Texas.

We want our visitors to know about the plight of the ocelot. Just like the rest of the animals at the Zoo, Gustavo and Novia, our resident ocelots, are here to raise awareness for their cousins in the wild. They represent threatened and endangered species and give meaning to conservation efforts around the world. In doing so, they help build appreciation and inspire care for wildlife and wild places.