Scientific and Socio-Political Planning for the Reintroduction of an Additional Endangered Ocelot Population in Texas

Abstract

This study has developed the scientific and socio-political framework for planning the reintroduction of an additional population of federally endangered ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) to part of the cats’ historic range in Texas. Such a reintroduction would support the ocelot’s recovery from listing under the Endangered Species Act. Using a geospatial assessment of ecological and socio-political factors in Texas, I identified a site containing 363 kilometers2 of suitable ocelot habitat as an ideal location to implement ocelot reintroduction. I then developed a model of ocelot reintroduction and found that releasing ocelots to the site for 10-15 years provides the best chance of successfully establishing a population at the selected site. Since the selected reintroduction site occurs on privately owned lands, I explored mechanisms for reintroducing ocelots while also addressing potential landowner concerns about Endangered Species Act Regulations. In the process of developing a Safe Harbor Agreement for ocelot reintroduction on private lands, I identified considerations for engaging private landowners in the recovery of threatened and endangered species.