Colin Watts · Unsplash Jaguar
Panthera onca
The largest cat in the Americas and the top predator of the Amazon. It is a strong swimmer and often hunts along the water, including caiman and turtles.
At a glance
Size 1.1–1.8m body length; 56–96kg
Diet Capybaras, caiman, peccary
Active Dusk (17–19), Night (19–05), Dawn (05–07)
Layer Forest floor
How to spot it
Look for paw prints in riverbank mud at dawn. Never approach.
Threats and conservation
Jaguar is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List (assessed 2018). This section will include sourced information on threats, population trends and active conservation programmes after expert review.
Watching responsibly
- Keep a safe distance. Do not approach to get a closer look or photograph.
- Look, listen, wait. Passive observation causes the least disturbance.
- Never feed, bait, call to or touch this animal.
- Follow all local park and reserve rules.
- Go with a qualified, locally-licensed guide whenever possible.
Sources
Conservation status: IUCN Red List Red List. Assessment year: 2018. Full sources will be listed here after expert review. Last checked: 2026-10-11.
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