Wild Fact #632 – Cooler Than the Car – Jaguar
Photo by Russell Smith (Wikimedia)
Yesterday, I mentioned that the Anaconda has been known to consume animals such as the Jaguar. Well, I went to link the Jaguar Wild Fact into that post, however, I was unable to find it. Naturally, this means we have yet to discuss the amazing and beautiful Jaguar. I know! I was just as surprised as you are. Well, my friends this oversight will be corrected today as we explore the tropical rainforests of South America to learn about the Jaguar.
Of all the cats in South America, the Jaguar happens to be the largest with a weight between 45 and 113 kg (100 – 250 pounds). Now I am really creeped out about a snake that is able to consume a 250 pound cat. Unlike other cats, the Jaguar actually enjoys hanging out in and around water. Believe it or not these majestic cats are actually pretty good swimmers. I don’t know who came up with the idea that cats don’t like water but they obviously never met a Jaguar.
These cats don’t just go swimming for pleasure or to cool off on a hot sunny day. Well, they might but they also head to the river to find some valuable food sources. The Jaguar is known to feed on fish, turtles and of course caimans (remember those crocodile-like animals). Outside of the water they feast on larger animals such as tapirs, deer and capybaras. Sometimes the Jaguar will pull off a pretty cool hunting technique where they will climb a tree and ambush their unfortunate prey with one powerful bite. I would not want to look up and see this large cat jumping out of a tree at me.
Photo by Pascal Blachier (Wikimedia)
Like most cats the Jaguar is a solitary creature who roams large territories which they will typically scent mark. Although they are solitary, these cats are very family oriented. Well, the female anyhow. Once her 1 to 4 cubs are born the mother will stay with them and fiercely protect them from any possible threat including their own father. I guess that explains why the male Jaguar does not have much of a parenting role.
Well, I guess that does it for today’s fact but don’t worry, we will be back here tomorrow for another fun Wild Fact. See you on Friday!
