Fauna
Mammal · GBIF taxon 2434930

Oncilla

Leopardus tigrinus

Also known as Northern Tiger Cat, Little Spotted Cat, Tigrillo

Oncillas are among the smallest wild cats in the Americas, perfectly proportioned like miniature leopards with slender frames suited for both agile ground hunting and navigating steep tree branches. Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, they stalk stealthily through dense underbrush, relying on cryptic mottled coats to ambush small vertebrates. Solitary and elusive by nature, their presence is often detected only through camera traps or pugmarks along quiet cloud forest trails.

NocturnalCarnivoreArboreal
Oncilla reference1 / 4
Licensed reference(c) Thomaz de Carvalho Callado, some rights reserved (CC BY) / CC BY 4.0 · cc-by
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VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Small rodents
  • Lizards
  • Passerine birds
Predators
  • Ocelot
  • Puma
  • Jaguar
ThreatsDeforestation, agricultural conversion, habitat fragmentation
HabitatsMontane cloud forests, tropical rainforests, dense scrublands
Life span10–14 years in the wild
Classification
  1. FamilyFelidae
  2. SpeciesLeopardus tigrinus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Capable of sharp bites and scratches if cornered; observe quietly from a respectful distance.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses sharp retractable claws and slender canines that cause puncture wounds prone to bacterial infection.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a diminutive house-cat-sized body with dark open rosettes and distinct facial stripes.
What to do
Never corner, cornered cats strike aggressively; back away slowly and do not attempt rescue without wildlife officials.
What to notice
Tiny spotted cat active mostly at dusk or night in montane forest belts.
Support conservation
Refrain from playing cat-call recordings or disturbing nocturnal habitats with high-powered flashlights.
Responsible observation
  • Camera Trapping: Position motion-activated trail cameras along natural game pathways for the best viewing opportunities.
  • Give Space: Step back if encountered at night to allow this naturally shy cat a clear route of retreat.
Related species
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