Ocelot Fest Returns to Brownsville

Ocelot Conservation Festival, the annual celebration of Texas’ beloved native cat, returns to the Gladys Porter Zoo on March 9. Hosted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Friends of the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, Defenders of Wildlife, and the East Foundation, this event celebrates the on-going conservation efforts to protect ocelots in South Texas.  

Now in its 28th year, the Ocelot Conservation Festival spotlights one of Texas’ most threatened wild residents and the challenges they face. Events will include the Ocelot Run on Saturday, March 8, and Ocelot Conservation Day on Sunday, March 9. Experts in ocelot conservation will present insights into the work being done to conserve and restore these elusive cats and safeguard their future in Texas.  

“The ocelot is such an amazing species that was once found across Texas and into Louisiana and Arkansas, but today only occurs in the Rio Grande Valley within the United States,” said George Garcia with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Ocelot Conservation Day brings good family fun and education of this beautiful endangered species to the locals that share its homeland in deep South Texas.  

“This festival is a fun way to bring our community together for the protection of these elusive and endangered animals,” said Dr. Greg Garcia, President for the Friends of Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. “Together, we are making a difference, one step at a time, for the preservation and education of our wildlife and natural habitats.”

“The ocelot is a true symbol of Texas’ wild heritage, and it's our responsibility to ensure there is a future that includes these unique cats,” said Defenders of Wildlife’s Senior Texas Representative Dr. Sharon Wilcox. “This festival is a powerful reminder that the future of the ocelot depends on us all, and every Texan has a role to play!”

“East Foundation is proud to be engaged in ocelot conservation and research on private working ranchlands in South Texas,” said East Foundation’s Chief Science Officer Dr. Jason Sawyer. “We are looking forward to being at Gladys Porter Zoo to educate the public about this elusive cat and to explain the important roles that science and ranching play in ocelot conservation.”

All are invited to join in this family-friendly celebration, filled with fun activities while learning about these rare wild cats. Zoo events include interactive games, exhibits, and a special chance to meet Leelou and Iggy, the Gladys Porter Zoo’s resident ocelots. Experts from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Gladys Porter Zoo, Defenders of Wildlife, American Forests, East Foundation, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, and University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley will give presentations throughout the day.  

Join us for the celebration and help ensure a future for the ocelot!