THE OCELOT. 



153 



Many of the members of the large genus Leopardus, are classed together under the title 

 of Ocelots, or, more popularly, of Tiger Cats. They are all most beautiful animals, their 

 fur being diversitied with the brilliant contrasts of a dark spot, streak, or dash upon a lighter 

 ground, and their actions filled with easy grace and elegance. 



The common Ocelot is a native of the tropical regions of America, where it is found in 

 some profusion. In length it rather exceeds four feet, of which the tail occupies a consider- 

 able portion. Its height averages eighteen inches. The ground color of the fur is a very light 

 grayish-fawn, on which are drawn partially broken bands of a very deep fawn-color, edged 

 with black, running along the line of the body. The band that extends along the spine is 

 unbroken. On the head, neck, and the inside of the limbs, the bands are broken up into spots 

 and dashes, which are entirely black, the fawn tint in their centre being totally merged in the 

 deeper hue ; the ears are black, with the exception of a conspicuous white spot upon the back 



OCELOT.— Leopardus 2>®rdalis. 



and near the base of each ear. Owing to the beauty of the fur, the Ocelot skin is in great 

 request for home use and exportation, and is extensively employed in the manufacture of 

 various fancy articles of dress or luxury. 



In its habits the Ocelot is quick, active, and powerful, proving itself at all points a true 

 leopard, although but in miniature. 



It is sufficiently fierce in its wild state to be a dangerous opponent if wounded or other- 

 wise irritated. When in captivity, its temper seems rather capricious, depending, in all 

 probability, on the individuality of the animal, or the treatment of its keepers. Some of these 

 creatures are always fierce and surly, setting up a savage growl when any one approaches their 

 cage, spitting at the visitor like an angry cat, and striking sharp, quick blows with the paws. 

 Others, again, are as quiet and well-behaved as the generality of domestic cats, like to be 

 noticed, and, if they think that the visitor is about to pass by their cage without recognizing 

 them, call his attention by a gracious purr, and rubbing themselves against the bars. They 

 will even offer themselves to be stroked and patted, and will bow their heads, just as a cat 

 does on feeling the touch of a friendly hand. 



