Amazon Jaguar Population Three Times Larger Than Previously Estimated
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📰 The quick summary: New research reveals Amazon jaguar populations are three times higher than previously estimated, enhancing prospects for conservation of this keystone predator in its most important stronghold.
📈 One key stat: Scientists found an average density of three jaguars per 100 square kilometers in protected areas, triple the density estimate that the IUCN currently recognizes for Amazonian jaguars.
💬 One key quote: “I wouldn’t risk saying that the entire Amazon has the average density of jaguars we found, but our results indicate that we likely have more jaguars per square kilometer than the [IUCN estimate] showed.“
1️⃣ The big picture: A major new study has discovered significantly higher jaguar populations in the Amazon than previously thought. Using camera traps across protected areas in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador, researchers identified 389 individual jaguars through their unique spot patterns. The study found an average density of three jaguars per 100 square kilometers – triple what was previously believed. From examining just 2.5% of the Amazon, scientists estimated more than 6,300 jaguars, suggesting the overall population could be much closer to higher-end estimates of 173,000 than the conservative IUCN figure of 64,000.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: These findings provide new hope for jaguar conservation throughout the Americas. With the species having disappeared from half its historical range, the Amazon represents jaguars’ last major stronghold. Higher population densities indicate protected areas are effectively supporting these apex predators, which serve as important indicators of ecosystem health. The research also creates a baseline for better monitoring of population changes across different habitat types – from flood plains with nearly 10 jaguars per 100 square kilometers to areas with poor soil quality containing significantly fewer animals. This knowledge allows conservation efforts to target resources more precisely where they’re needed most.
3️⃣ What’s next: Conservation planners can now use this data to develop more effective protection strategies for vulnerable jaguar populations. Researchers need to expand surveys to more regions within the Amazon to confirm the overall population estimates. More detailed mapping will help identify areas where jaguar numbers are declining, allowing conservationists to focus their efforts on the most threatened populations.
Read the full story here: Mongabay – Study suggests there are more jaguars in the Amazon than previously thought
