Margay

Main Characteristics
Margay have a body length between 46 and 79 cms (18 - 31 inches), a tail length between 33 and 51 cms (13 - 20 inches) and they weigh between 2.5 and 4 kgs (5.5 - 8.75 lbs). They are pale brown in colour with dark spots.

They are known for their exceptional climbing abilities and they are able to run head first down a tree, or hang from a branch by one paw.

Habitat
Margay can be found in forested areas of Mexico, Central and South America. They are solitary and mainly nocturnal. They have a home range between 15 and 43 Sq. Km (6 - 17 Sq. Miles).

Diet
Margay mainly feed on small mammals, birds, lizards, frogs, insects and eggs.

Breeding
After a gestation period of 76 - 85 days, 1 - 2 young are born. Weaning begins at 2 months old and they reach sexual maturity at 2 years of age.

Predators
Humans are predators of Margay.

Subspecies
Subspecies of the Margay include:

Leopardus wiedii wiedii
Leopardus wiedii amazonicus
Leopardus wiedii pirrensis
Leopardus wiedii salvinius
Leopardus wiedii glauculus
Leopardus wiedii boliviae
Leopardus wiedii oaxacensis
Leopardus wiedii cooperi
Leopardus wiedii yucatanicus
Leopardus wiedii nicaraguae

Interesting Facts
Margay are also known as: Tree Ocelot Long-Tailed Spotted Cat

Only the Margay and the clouded leopard have the ankle flexibility to enable them to climb down trees head first.