Oncilla

rainforest · small cat · spotted beauty

Tiny but mighty. The oncilla is a small wildcat about the size of a house cat, with a slender body built for hunting in trees and on the ground. Despite its small size, it is a skilled predator of small rodents, birds, and insects.

Forest dweller. This cat lives in the rainforests and tropical forests of Central America and northern South America, ranging from countries like Guatemala all the way to central Brazil. It prefers dense vegetation and is most active during twilight hours and at night.

Vulnerable species. The oncilla is listed as Vulnerable because its forest home is shrinking fast as people clear trees for farms and cattle ranches. Without enough forest left, these wildcats struggle to find food and safe places to live.

Many nicknames. This clever cat goes by several names including the northern tiger cat, little spotted cat, and tigrillo, which means 'little tiger' in Spanish. Scientists use its proper name to avoid confusion.

Night hunter. The oncilla hunts mostly at night when it's harder for other animals to see it, using its excellent eyesight and hearing to track down meals in the dark forest.