SMALLER CATS. 



417 



the ocelot vary in coloration, but it also displays considerable individual difference 

 in point of size. Thus the total length of the animal may vary from 4 feet to 

 3 feet 1 inch, and that of the tail from 15 to 11 inches. 



The ocelot appears to be an exclusively forest animal, and is said to be an 

 expert climber, capturing most of its prej^, which consists of small mammals and 

 birds, in the trees. In disposition it is described as fierce and savage in the wild 

 state. Jardine gives an account of a young specimen in captivitj-, which was 



THE OCELOT (J nat. size). 



excessively playful, and fond of climbing, especially on the visitors, and was fairly 

 tractable, although its docility depended to some extent upon the nature of its 

 food. 



The Margay {Felia tigrma). 



The margay is another American forest -dwelling species, which likewise 

 exhibits considerable vai-iation in colour and size ; its range extending from Mexico 

 to Paraguay. 



The ordinary variety, according to Professor Mivart, " has rather harsh fur, of 

 a dull grizzled colour, varied with black spots and rings. The tail is marked with 

 small black spots, often confluent, but not forming rings. There are three 

 transverse black stripes on the cheek. The liead and body measure together a 

 little over 24 inches, and the tail is about 11 inches long." There are, however, 

 two well-marked varieties, one of which is known as the chati, while the other, 

 represented in our figure on the next page, has been called F. rnacrura ; both of 

 these being characterised by the softness of their fur, their bright fulvous colour, 



VOL. I. — 27 



