Jaguar

Panthera onca

The last jaguars in the United States were killed off during the early 20th century. Thanks to a population that has survived in Mexico, the species is now trying to return its own by crossing the U.S.-Mexico border and moving into former habitats. The jaguar is an apex predator playing a very important role in the ecosystem. Without the jaguar and other predators, prey species that feed on vegetation would decimate local plants.

Fun Facts

• The word jaguar comes from the indigenous word ‘yaguar,’ which means ‘he who kills with one leap'.
• They are the world’s third largest cat in the world, right behind the tiger and the lion.
• Jaguars often live near bodies of water, and are known to be excellent swimmers.
• Cubs weigh around the same as a loaf of bread when they’re born.
• Their spots are called ‘rosettes’ because they are shaped like roses.