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09-29-2017, 06:37 AM( This post was last modified: 09-29-2017, 07:03 AM by epaiva )
The margay (Leopardus wiedii)
The margay is a small cat native to Central and South America that is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN since 2008 because remaining populations are thought to be declining due to loss of habitat following conversion of forests .The margay is very similar to the larger ocelot in appearance, although the head is a little shorter, the eyes larger, and the tail and legs longer. It weighs from 2.5 to 4 kg (5.7 to 8.8 lb), with a body length of 47 to 79 cm (19 to 31 in), and a tail length of 33 to 50 cm (13 to 20 in).
Most notably the margay is a much more skilful climber than its relative, and it is sometimes called the tree ocelot because of this ability. Whereas the ocelot mostly pursues prey on the ground, the margay may spend its entire life in the trees, leaping after and chasing birds and monkeys through the treetops. It is remarkably agile; its ankles can turn up to 180 degrees, it can grasp branches equally well with its fore and hind paws. The margay has been observed to hang from branches with only one foot.
credits to @wildnetorg @coxandkingsusa @world_pictures_z and @noherrera