The species was declared extinct ten years ago, but now the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), also known as ozelot, ocelot or American ocelot, has been revived in Argentina, in the province of Corrientes.
The species was declared extinct in Argentina ten years ago, but now theocelot (Leopardus pardalis), also known as ozelot, or ocelot American ocelot, was revived in the province of Corrientes.
This was stated by the Conservation Land Trust which cooperates with the government provincial of Corrientes for the protection of local flora and fauna. Researchers from the National Council for Scientific and Technical Research's Sub-Tropical Biology Institute confirmed that the animal filmed by some camcorders last December it is just an example of the American ocelot.
The ocelot is a medium-sized feline whose original distribution extended from the southern United States to central Argentina. The American ocelot is about twice the size of an ordinary domestic cat.
In the past the American leopard was the object of hunting because of its coat that was used to make furs and coats. Another factor that led to the disappearance of the American leopard in Argentina is the destruction of the natural habitat.
Researchers spotted the ocelot by accident as they were monitoring the successful reintroduction of giant anteaters to Ibera. The hope is that the leopard filmed by the cameras is not the only one in the area.
According to the researchers, this could be the only surviving specimen in Argentina or other American ocelots could live in the area, to allow the continuation of the species in these places. Further monitoring activities could confirm this.
Marta Albè
Photo source: Wikipedia
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