The Leopardus pardalis, commonly known as the ocelot, is a medium-sized wild cat native to South and Central America. It has a striking coat marked with chain-like rosettes and spots. Ocelots are nocturnal, solitary animals, primarily inhabiting rainforests but also found in grasslands and mangroves. They are adept climbers and swimmers, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Leopardus pardalis, commonly known as the ocelot, is native to the Americas. Its geographical distribution extends from the southern United States, particularly in Texas, through Mexico, Central America, and into South America, reaching as far south as northern Argentina and Uruguay. The species is widespread across countries such as Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, and Peru.

The ocelot inhabits a range of environments, primarily favoring tropical and subtropical regions. It thrives in dense forests, including rainforests, tropical deciduous forests, and mangrove swamps. However, it can also be found in savannahs, thorn scrubs, and semi-arid regions. The species is adept at adapting to various forested environments that provide dense cover and sufficient prey.

As a nocturnal and solitary predator, the ocelot occupies the ecological niche of a mid-sized carnivore. It is an opportunistic hunter, feeding on a variety of prey such as small to medium-sized mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Its role in the ecosystem includes controlling the population of these prey species, thereby maintaining ecological balance. The ocelot's adaptability to different forest types allows it to exploit a wide range of resources across its geographical range.