Margay

This species is predominantly uncommon to rare throughout its range (Payán 2009, Oliveira et al. 2010, Tortato et al. 2013, S. Carvajal pers. comm.). In general, Margays occur at densities of 1-5 ind./100 km², but have been estimated as high as 15-25 ind./100 km² in a very few and highly localized areas (Oliveira et al. 2010, Oliveira 2011). Where Ocelots co-occur in densities >10 ind./100 km², Margay densities are expected to be much lower than 5 per 100 km² (Oliveira et al. 2010). The Margay is negatively impacted by Ocelot numbers and does not seem to attain effective population size for long term persistence in any Conservation Unit outside the Amazon basin possibly due to the “ocelot effect” (Oliveira et al. 2010, Oliveira 2011). Thus, viable populations are expected to occur mostly outside protected areas or where Ocelot numbers are low. With the exception of the Amazon mega-reserves, it is not expected to be adequately protected anywhere else. Margays are undergoing a continuing decline due primarily to habitat loss to deforestation (IUCN Cats Red List workshop 2007). Considered Vulnerable in Brazil (Tortato et al. 2013) and Argentina (Diaz and Ojeda 2000), Near Threatened in Colombia (Rodriguez-Mahecha et al. 2006), Threatened in Mexico (SEMARNAT 2002), and in Costa Rica (MINAE).