Margays inhabit tropical and subtropical forests. The majority
of published observations were made in forested environments,
although L. wiedii occasionally occupies more disturbed areas.
(de Oliveira, 1998; Nowak, 1999) Margays are petite, spotted
cats, resembling small, slender ocelots (Leopardus pardalis).
Head and body length range from 463 to 790 mm, with tail length
331 to 510 mm. Weight 2.6 to 3.9 kg. Dark brown spots form
longitudinal rows; fur otherwise tan (range: grayish to
cinnamon) above, white ventrally. The pelage of these cats is
soft and thick. (de Oliveira, 1998; Eisenberg and Redford, 1999;
Nowak, 1999) Most reproductive statistics come from captive
animals; all aspects of behavior and physiology are virtually
unstudied in the field (Azevedo, 1996; Mansard, 1997; Nowak,
1999). Females may breed in their first year. Estrous cycles are
approximately 33 days, but may be shorter if mating does not
occur. Gestation may last from 76 to 84 days, with a litter size
of one, sometimes two. Young begi