9 interesting facts about the oncilla: both the mother and father play little role in the survival of the kittens

The oncilla, also known as the northern tiger cat or tigrilla, is a cunning, small wildcat that shares its habitat with the ocelot and the otherworldly-looking margay. But why do we call this efficient little predator cunning? Firstly, because it calls itself a tiger cat, yet it has spots. More on that later!

This extremely reclusive little animal (typical of a wildcat, of course) is shrouded in mystery, making it very difficult to study. However, it’s worth getting to know them better! Let’s explore what science currently knows about the life and habits of the oncilla.

1.) Acrobatics in bed—well, in the leaves—are not their strength

According to scientists, they generally live solitary lives, only coming into contact with their own species during mating. Females usually give birth to a single kitten, which they raise only until the age of 4 months. However, oncillas reach sexual maturity at 2 years old. After weaning, the mother plays no role in the kitten’s survival, and the father doesn’t care for the young or maintain any contact with the mother.

As a result, their reproductive rate is very low, which partially explains why these beautiful cats are so rare, even though they have very few natural predators.

2.) They play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem

Of course, this is true for all animals to some extent, but based on current knowledge, these cats hold a particularly important place in the cycle. Their natural habitats are the heavily forested areas of Central and South America, but they also inhabit savannas and wetlands for hunting. Thanks to their hunting skills, they help keep rodent populations in check in these areas.

Unfortunately, their circumstances are also gradually changing. The destruction of their habitat and the presence of larger carnivores often force them to live closer to human settlements than they naturally would. Sadly, they are already classified as vulnerable on the Red List.

3.) The oncilla’s fur is a sought-after commodity

The world’s Cruella de Vils have cast their net over this unfortunate creature as well. If recent reports are to be believed, restrictions on the fur trade have somewhat reduced the market for their pelts, but this information should be taken with caution.

While they are listed under Appendix I of CITES (which includes species that are granted varying degrees or types of protection against over-exploitation), banning all international trade, hunting is still allowed in Ecuador, Guyana, Nicaragua, and Peru.

4.) They compare to house cats like average people compare to models

Their body length is around 30–60 cm, which is much longer than an average house cat. Interestingly, though, their weight can be lower than our pets’; they typically weigh around 2.5 kg.

5.) They’ve puzzled scientists with this

Recently, it was discovered that there are likely two subspecies of the oncilla; a northern and a southern one. Although there are barely any differences in their appearance and they share their habitat, it’s suspected that they cannot interbreed.

6.) And with this too…

While the two subspecies likely don’t interbreed, it has been observed that they do get along very well with the pampas cat, resulting in a decline in purebred individuals. This also threatens their future prospects.

7.) They climb to astonishing heights with incredible skill

They can climb the tallest trees with unbeatable elegance, which isn’t too surprising for a feline. However, what is absolutely astounding is that they can easily live at altitudes of 3,200 meters above sea level. And they don’t even get a headache! Researchers suspect this helps them avoid having to compete with other felines for survival.

8.) Both black and patterned versions are common among them

Surprisingly, the completely black oncilla is not rare at all, making up about one-fifth of the population of these elegant individuals.

9.) The oncilla is an efficient but gentle hunter

Observations show that tigrillas don’t let their prey suffer. With a single perfectly aimed bite, they swiftly dispatch their prey, targeting the back of the skull.