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The importance of private lands for ocelot Leopardus pardalis conservation in the United States

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 January 2006

Aaron M. Haines
Affiliation:
Feline Research Program, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, 700 University Blvd., MSC 218, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
Jan E Janecka
Affiliation:
Feline Research Program, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, 700 University Blvd., MSC 218, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
Michael E. Tewes
Affiliation:
Feline Research Program, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, 700 University Blvd., MSC 218, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
Lon I. Grassman Jr
Affiliation:
Feline Research Program, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, 700 University Blvd., MSC 218, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
Patricia Morton
Affiliation:
Feline Research Program, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, 700 University Blvd., MSC 218, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
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Abstract

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The distribution of ocelots Leopardus pardalis in the USA is limited to southern Texas. Identification and monitoring of ocelot populations enables biologists to assess population health and status. Use of camera traps has been successfully used to monitor numerous populations of wild felids, including the ocelot. Our objectives were to identify ocelot presence within southern Texas and estimate ocelot population size and density. We used camera traps to survey for ocelots on four study sites in southern Texas. We recorded ocelot presence on one study site with an abundance estimate of three individuals and a density estimate of 0.30±SE 0.03 ocelots km−2. The conservation implications of this study suggest concentrating conservation efforts in and around the study site (Yturria Ranch) found to have ocelots. In addition, this study emphasizes the importance of including private landowners in the ocelot recovery process.

Type
Articles
Copyright
© 2006 Fauna & Flora International