Effects of Sun Angle, Lunar Illumination, and Diurnal Temperature on Temporal Movement Rates of Sympatric Ocelots and Bobcats in South Texas

Despite overlapping in body size, diet, and habitat use, sympatric ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) and bobcats (Lynx rufus) in South Texas exhibit temporal niche partitioning. Using GPS and accelerometer data, we found that ocelots are strongly nocturnal, while bobcats are crepuscular, with peak activity at sunrise and sunset. Bobcats were more active on bright moonlit nights, whereas ocelots were most active during low lunar illumination. Ocelots also reduced daytime activity on hotter days. Although both species showed some overlap in nocturnal and crepuscular activity, these differences help facilitate their coexistence.

Citation

related PUBLICATIONS

Toxoplasma Gondii:  Challenges and Perspectives in Interpreting Longitudinal Seroprevalence Data for a Chronic Parasitic Infection

May 26, 2026
Peer-Reviewed

Influence of First Calving Date on Stayability and Productivity in Bos Indicus-Bos Taurus Crossbred Cows

May 5, 2026
Peer-Reviewed

Lures Do Not Increase Box-Trapping Success of an Endangered Felid in South Texas

March 24, 2026
Peer-Reviewed

Techniques for Estimating Quail Abundance in Rangeland Vegetation

March 11, 2026
Peer-Reviewed

Measuring Adaptive Decision Making in Livestock Grazing Systems

March 6, 2026
Peer-Reviewed

Timing of Rainfall Influences Juvenile and Yearling Mass of a Long-Lived Herbivore in a Semiarid Environment

March 2, 2026
Peer-Reviewed