Jaguarundi
The jaguarundi is a small New World wild cat native to the Americas.
The jaguarundi is a small wild cat native to the Americas, known for its long, low-slung body and short legs. It is sometimes called the otter cat or eyra cat. The species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, although some populations are declining.
Taxonomy and naming
The jaguarundi is a wild cat in the family Felidae. It is also known as the otter cat or eyra cat, and its scientific name is commonly given as Puma yagouaroundi.
Physical characteristics
Jaguarundis are small, slender cats with short legs, rounded ears, and a long tail. Their unusual body shape gives them a weasel-like or otter-like appearance. Two colour phases are commonly described: greyish-brown and reddish. Adults typically measure about 53–77 cm (21–30 in) in length with a weight of 2.5–9.1 kg (5.5–20 lb). In captivity, they can live up to about 15 years.
Distribution and habitat
The species occurs from northern Mexico through Central America and into much of South America, with historical records from southern Texas. It uses a wide variety of habitats including scrub, savanna, woodland, rainforest margins, and other densely vegetated areas.
Diet and behaviour
Jaguarundis are carnivorous and eat small vertebrates and other prey such as rodents, birds, reptiles, frogs, and fish. They are generally solitary and are often described as more diurnal than many other wild cats.
Conservation status
Key facts
- The jaguarundi is a small unspotted cat of the family Felidae.
- Two colour phases are commonly described: greyish-brown and reddish.
- Its natural range extends from northern Mexico to South America, with historical records from southern Texas.
- The species is generally listed as Least Concern, but habitat loss affects some local populations.
- It is also known as the otter cat or eyra cat.
Jaguarundis are not native to Canada, but they are of interest to Canadian readers as part of North American wildlife and conservation coverage.
Frequently asked questions
What is a jaguarundi?
Where do jaguarundis live?
What do jaguarundis eat?
Are jaguarundis endangered?
Why is it called the otter cat?
References
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/jaguarundiSupports: Scientific name, family, general description, native range, and common name 'otter-cat'.
- Discover Wildlife — https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/mammals/aguarundiSupports: Range, body form, daily activity pattern, and conservation notes.
- Panthera — https://panthera.org/blog-post/small-cat-spotlight-jaguarundiSupports: Scientific name and conservation status overview.
- Lamar University — https://www.lamar.edu/arts-sciences/biology/study-abroad-belize/jungle-critters/jungle-critters-2/jaguarundi.htmlSupports: Range and habitat variety.
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department — https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/jag/Supports: Presence in northern Mexico and central/south America; size relative to domestic cats.