We are working in Panama and Costa Rica using noninvasive genetic techniques and camera trapping to study oncillas in their natural habitat. We have now collected hundreds of wild cat scat samples many of which we have identified as oncilla using DNA sequencing. The locations of these samples is allowing us to better understand the distribution of oncillas in Central America, and identify the habitats they call home. We are also using these scat sample to determine the diet of oncillas using DNA matabarcoding.

Thanks to generous funding from the international NGO Panthera, and the American Museum of Natural History, we are continuing to conduct surveys for oncilla scats in Panama and Costa Rica.