New Safe Haven for Endangered Species at Vallarta Botanical Garden Jeremy Taylor - Vallarta Botanical Garden
go to original June 1, 2022

The Ocelot, which spends most of the day hidden in the forest is most active at night. (Pinetrest)

As part of its Conservation in Action Campaign, Vallarta Botanical Garden is announcing the establishment of the Ocelot Sanctuary (Santuario de los Ocelotes) on 85 hectares of densely forested land south of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Since its founding in 2004, the Vallarta Botanical Garden has focused on preserving the unspoiled tropical forest and the unique habitat just south of Puerto Vallarta. One of the most biodiverse areas in the world and home to many endangered plant and animal species, its protection is of international importance.

The Vallarta Botanical Garden is now embarking on its most ambitious conservation and fundraising campaign yet! An initial 85 hectares of densely forested land just south of the Garden was purchased to establish a Forest Preserve. As part of its Conservation in Action Plan, this territory will be protected and preserved for future generations. The Vallarta Botanical Garden is announcing that these first 85 hectares of forest are home to the world’s first Ocelot Sanctuary, raising awareness of this endangered cat and the importance of habitat continuity.

The ocelot is a medium-sized wild cat with a distinct and unique spotted coat and a long ringed tail. As the ocelot is associated with areas of dense cover, a night camera trap study on this newly acquired land captured images of numerous different ocelots foraging for prey. The presence of this elusive cat had not been previously documented at this location; this finding brought the project to life.

The ocelots’ fine, soft fur has made them the target of poachers and the population has suffered. Ocelots are now protected in the United States and most other countries where they live. With a decreasing population worldwide, mainly due to habitat fragmentation, the Ocelot Sanctuary delivers the habiitat necessary for the ocelots’ survival.

Vallarta Botanical Garden Founder and Curator, Bob Price reinforced this key point and said “The establishment of the new Ocelot Sanctuary shows the Garden’s commitment to conservation in Mexico. The only way to preserve species is by preserving their habitat.”

The Vallarta Botanical Garden is proud to create a safe space for this elusive cat that can swim, climb, run and jump its way through the jungle. Plans are underway to give conservationists access to the Sanctuary, with designated trails for accompanied hikes to educate and bring more awareness to the importance of habitat protection.

You can support the Vallarta Botanical Garden and Conservation in Action Land Preservation Campaign by making a tax-deductible donation. Friends of Vallarta Botanical Gardens

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