The Margay (Leopardus wiedii), also known as the tiger cat, is a small cat native to South and Central America. Its primary habitat is the deciduous forest where it prefers to spend most of its time among the trees. As such, the Margay is a talented climber that has the ability to climb down trees head-first—a skill only shared with the Clouded Leopard.
The Margay has large eyes, round ears, brown fur with brownish-black rosettes, and claws that increase its tree climbing capabilities. It is similar in appearance to an ocelot although it has a more distinct face and longer tail.
Margays have a shoulder height between 12”-17” (31-43 cm), body length of 18”-31” (36-79 cm), and weight in the range of 5-9 lb (2-4 kg). The tail of a Margay is 12”-20" (31-51 cm) in length. Margays have a typical lifespan of 12-14 years wild and up to 24 years in captivity.
The Margay (Leopardus wiedii), also known as the tiger cat, is a small cat native to South and Central America. Its primary habitat is the deciduous forest where it prefers to spend most of its time among the trees. As such, the Margay is a talented climber that has the ability to climb down trees head-first—a skill only shared with the Clouded Leopard.
The Margay has large eyes, round ears, brown fur with brownish-black rosettes, and claws that increase its tree climbing capabilities. It is similar in appearance to an ocelot although it has a more distinct face and longer tail.
Margays have a shoulder height between 12”-17” (31-43 cm), body length of 18”-31” (36-79 cm), and weight in the range of 5-9 lb (2-4 kg). The tail of a Margay is 12”-20" (31-51 cm) in length. Margays have a typical lifespan of 12-14 years wild and up to 24 years in captivity.
