Ministry ‘Unequivocally Condemns’ Ocelot Shooting Incident In Cedros/Granville Forest
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries said it acknowledges a recent incident involving an ocelot, an Environmentally Sensitive Species (ESS) protected under the Environmental Management Act , found shot and wounded in the Cedros-Granville forest on Sunday (22nd February, 2026). The animal was recovered by wildlife officials, transferred to veterinary care, and is presently receiving treatment. Recovery is expected to take several weeks. In a Media Release on Tuesday (24th February, 2026), the Ministry said the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is “legally recognized as an ESS, a status that accords it full protection from hunting, harm, or disturbance. As an apex predator, the species plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of Trinidad and Tobago's forests by regulating prey populations. Any act that jeopardizes the life or well-being of an ESS not only undermines national conservation objectives but also contravenes the Environmental Management Act , which prescri...