What wild cats are native to Texas?

Texas has SIX native cats, most of which are endangered and very rarely seen. The exception to this is the BOBCAT, which is quite common throughout the state, inhabiting a variety of habitat -- although it is elusive and not often seen.

The OCELOT is native to southern Texas and north-eastern Mexico. The MOUNTAIN LION (aka "puma" or "cougar") is found in the Trans-Pecos of west Texas, southern portions of the Hill Country, and in the brushlands of southern Texas. There have been reports of mountain lion in the north-central part of the state as well.

JAGUARS haven't been seen in Texas since the turn of the century, but a stray from Mexico is still possible. The MARGAY, last seen in Texas over one hundred years ago, had a large range in southern Texas a few thousand years ago. The JAGUARUNDI, extremely rare in Texas, inhabits the brush country in the extreme southern part of the state.

For additional information please visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife website, where you'll find the above information and more in a pdf of the publication entitled "Cats of Texas", by W.B. Davis, Professor Emeritus at Texas A & M University.