A new large-scale study suggests jaguar populations in the Amazon are significantly higher than previously estimated. Using camera traps across 22 protected areas in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador, researchers recorded an average density of three jaguars per 100 km²—three times the IUCN’s current estimate.
By identifying 389 individual jaguars, they estimated over 6,300 in just 2.5% of the Amazon studied. This implies global jaguar numbers may approach 173,000, rather than the IUCN’s conservative figure of 64,000.
Although jaguars are listed as near threatened, the Amazon population is considered stable. The study highlights wide regional variation in density, influenced by habitat quality. Researchers stress the importance of mapping jaguar distribution to guide targeted conservation efforts, especially as the species has vanished from half its historic range.
Photo ©️ Unsplash.com
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