The jaguar (Panthera onca) is the largest carnivorous mammal in the American continent. However, the conservation of this species has worried environmentalists for years. Currently the jaguar, like many other species, is considered a near threatened species (NT) and the population trend is declining.
In this article on our site we will explain why the jaguar is in danger of extinctionWe will detail the main causes that affect this species and we will mention some measures that can help prevent it from becoming a vulnerable species.
Where does the jaguar lives?
The jaguar is a large cat of the Panthera genus that is characterized by its tawny yellow fur with rose-shaped spots, perfect for camouflaging itself in its habitat. This species inhabits the tropical and temperate forests of Argentina, Brazil, Guyana and Venezuela. Populations are currently fragmented due to the influence exerted by human beings on the environment.
In its natural environment, the jaguar is a very active animal, capable of traveling up to 5 kilometers a day. He is also an excellent swimmer. It can reach two meters in length and weigh between 40 and 150 kilograms.
We are talking about a predatory animal that feeds mainly on wild boars, snakes, alligators, turtles and armadillos. However, Why is the jaguar in danger of extinction? Below we will talk about the current population of the species and other important data to consider.
How many jaguars are left in the world?
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the jaguar (Panthera onca) is listed as near-threatened species (NT), which means that in the near future it could be considered a vulnerable species, since the population has significantly decreased in recent decades.
But how many jaguars are there really left in the world? The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) indicates that the population of the species has been reduced by up to 37% since 1980 However, it is estimated that the chances of survival in the long term they are around 70% if effective conservation measures are applied.
Currently it is estimated that there are around 15,000 jaguars in the wild. Likewise, the WCS has committed to protecting more than 5,000 jaguars in the wild and 400,000 km2 of habitat for the species.
The main threats of the jaguar
Continuing with the information on the endangered jaguar, we must talk about the causes that threaten the jaguar, since it is the only way of knowing how to act to prevent the species from entering a vulnerable state. Let us remember that in addition to affecting the species itself, the decline in the jaguar population also alters the fauna and flora of its habitat.
Some of the reasons that explain why the jaguar is in danger of extinction are:
- Poachers: Illegal hunting has a very negative effect on the population of the species. This animal is persecuted for its skin, being the main cause of death of Panthera onca.
- The destruction of their habitat: deforestation is a global problem that affects most species on the planet, including the jaguar. This practice causes the slow destruction of the habitat of the species, causing the isolation of individuals, exposure to man and the loss of genetic diversity.
- Confrontations with ranchers: the constant exploitation of the jaguar's natural habitat has led to clashes between these animals and ranchers, that criminalize the species arguing attacks on livestock.
- Illegal hunting of jaguar prey: Finally, it should be noted that hunting, also illegal, of other species that are a source of food for jaguars, plays an important role in population decline.
How to prevent the extinction of the jaguar?
Now that you know why the jaguar is in danger of extinction, how many jaguars are left in the world and some of the causes that threaten the species, you may be wondering how protect the jaguar and what actions you can take to collaborate, right?
To begin with, it is essential to commit to a sustainable lifestyle and respectful of the environment, which helps to avoid pollution, deforestation or hunting. Through small actions, the "zero waste" movement contributes enormously to taking care of our planet, as well as the animals.
It is also possible to help by collaborating on an occasional or regular basis with conservationist associations, entities and groups by disseminating information, raising awareness or collecting funds to be able to carry out direct actions in the environment and in the conservation of the species.
The collection of signatures to protect natural parks, specific areas or promote animal protection laws are also measures that can involve state entities that effectively support wildlife and conservation programs.
Do you want to share some measures that help prevent the jaguar from becoming endangered? Leave us your comments and mention what you do to collaborate with the conservation of the species!
