The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is a Brazilian feline present in the national list of endangered species due to the poaching to supply fur trade (specially until the 1980´s), and nowadays, due to deforestation, which reduces and fragments proper habitats for this species.

One main step in establishing conservation strategies for endangered species is to obtain information on population density and size, as well as to gain better understanding of the factors that influence their survival. Between 2002 and 2003, a study conducted in San Francisco Farm, located on the Pantanal of Miranda (MS), showed the specie´s main diet composes primarily of small wild rodents. Therefore, the ocelot is an important predator of these species that can cause, for example, crop damage if there is no natural control by their predators.

Now, we are beginning a new research that intends to answer some questions about ocelot´s ecology, which is extremely relevant for its conservation. We want to know specific population size of ocelots in San Francisco Farm and monitor them throughout the years to evaluate the specie´s behavior in the Pantanal region. To accomplish this, we are performing annual mapping on population size. We are also capturing and tracking some species individuals with GPS radio collars for round-the-clock monitoring on reproductive, feeding and territorial behaviors.

The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is a Brazilian feline present in the national list of endangered species due to the poaching to supply fur trade (specially until the 1980´s), and nowadays, due to deforestation, which reduces and fragments proper habitats for this species.

One main step in establishing conservation strategies for endangered species is to obtain information on population density and size, as well as to gain better understanding of the factors that influence their survival. Between 2002 and 2003, a study conducted in San Francisco Farm, located on the Pantanal of Miranda (MS), showed the specie´s main diet composes primarily of small wild rodents. Therefore, the ocelot is an important predator of these species that can cause, for example, crop damage if there is no natural control by their predators.

Now, we are beginning a new research that intends to answer some questions about ocelot´s ecology, which is extremely relevant for its conservation. We want to know specific population size of ocelots in San Francisco Farm and monitor them throughout the years to evaluate the specie´s behavior in the Pantanal region. To accomplish this, we are performing annual mapping on population size. We are also capturing and tracking some species individuals with GPS radio collars for round-the-clock monitoring on reproductive, feeding and territorial behaviors.