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The LA Zoo Announces The Birth Of An Ocelot Kitten

A new born ocelot kitten wrapped in a towel in the arms of an LA Zoo staffer
The male kitten is unnamed at the moment, but staff at the Los Angeles Zoo say he was born on Sept. 12 and is healthy.
(
Courtesy of the LA Zoo
)

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Topline:

Wildcat lovers can rejoice as the Los Angeles Zoo has announced the birth of a baby ocelot. The male kitten was born on Sept. 12.

Why it matters: The U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife categorizes ocelots as endangered. The wildcats are found in Arizona, Texas, Mexico, as well as Central and South America.

The kitten: The male kitten is unnamed at the moment and living out of public view until he can be fully vaccinated. He'll be moved to an outdoor habitat once zoo staff sense he can move around safely.

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What to expect: At 3 months old the kitten has grown to over six pounds. Los Angeles Zoo animal keeper Stephanie Zielinski said he's already surpassed multiple milestones.

"His eyes opened after nine days and his teeth began to erupt after 20 days," she said. "At first he was toddling around on unsteady legs, but he’s become stronger and more agile every day. He has a big personality now, and he’s brave and curious.”

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