Animal: Jaguar

Scientific Name: Panthera onca

Description: Jaguars have a spotted fur coat, a compact body, a broad head, and powerful jaws. It is the largest cat in South America.

Length: 5 to 6 ft.

Weight: 140-220 lb.

Life Span: 12-16 years

Population: 15,000 in the wild

Where It Lives: Jaguars are found mostly in Central and South America. However some continue to survive in Mexico. Two jaguars were spotted in Arizona and New Mexico. They prefer to live in thick forests or swamps with good cover and water access. Jaguars have been known to hunt in arid, open areas. They generally live in caves or canyons close to water.

Does it live in a Pack or Group? No, jaguars are solitary animals.

Reproduction: The average litter size for a jaguar is one to four cubs. Cubs remain with their mother for two years.

Diet: Their pray is diverse. The range goes from wild pigs, capybaras, deer, slothes, caymans, tapirs, freshwater fish, and smaller animals. Occasionally jaguars eat livestock. They always drag their prey back to a safe spot to eat.

Why is it Endangered? Jaguars are endangered because they are hunted. Their populations are also suffering from habitat loss and fragmentation.