# data[].attributes.body
Animal Science 285

Section 1

Fall 2024

# data[].attributes.body
Many things can be helpful in managing the behavior of jaguars in captivity.

Training

Enrichment

Positive Staff-Animal Interactions

Use of Known Methodologies

# data[].attributes.body
Facilities must have a comprehensive knowledge of the reproductive behaviors of Jaguars in their care.

AI has not been successful in Jaguars, but introduction of a new male following estrus has been successful

Pregnant Jaguars must be managed in ways that reduce stress to the mother.

Birthing Jaguars should be isolated and be kept comfortable

Following the birth of cubs, human interaction should be limited at first

# data[].attributes.body
Full-time staff veterinarian is recommended, but a part-time veterinarian must make at least twice monthly inspections and attend emergencies

Institutions must have holding facilities or procedures for quarantine of newly arrived animals or for sick/injured animals

Preventative Medicine:

institution should be prepared for disease outbreaks

Regular preventative medicine should be implemented:

physical examination including body weight, temperature, pulse, respiration, nail and pad evaluation, dental exams, whole body exam for abscesses and lacerations

Regular vaccines and boosters should be given

# data[].attributes.body
Jaguars are opportunistic predators and their diet is diverse

In the wild their diet may include: Capybara, Caiman, Turtle, Deer, and many other species

Energy Requirements for Adult Jaguars:

119-139 kcal/kg of body weight per day

Diet:

Formulation, preparation and delivery of all diet must be of the quality and quantity to meet the Jaguars needs.

meat mixes, whole prey, bones, carcasses and muscle meat diets balanced with supplements

Enrichment Foods:

enrichment foods can be provided to promote hunting and feeding behaviors

# data[].attributes.body
Jaguars are generally solitary animals, except with mothers and offspring.

Housing a single jaguar is ideal, but many jaguars appear more content with a mate

Some same-sex groups can be maintained together as long as their individual behavior is compatible

Introducing animals in a way that is safe for the animal is crucial

# data[].attributes.body
Transportation must be done in a way that adheres to laws and minimizes risk to the animal

Equipment must provide: adequate containment, life support, comfort, temperature, food and water, and safety

Crates must provide adequate space, but not too large to prevent injuries

Vents must not be too large so the animal can escape or injure themselves

Transports should be planned to ensure the fastest route is taken

# data[].attributes.body
Exhibit design should meet the physical, social behavioral and psychological needs of the species.

Species-appropriate behavior:

The space should accommodate a Jaguars natural behaviors

Climbing structures

Various high nesting sites

Pools

Plenty of natural cover

Enclosure Size:

50% of additional space should be provided for each additional animal

Outdoors: no less than 91.4 square meters

Indoors: no less than 6.1m x 4.6m, with a minimum height of 2.4m

Enclosure Complexity:

The space should be provided with complexity to ensure a less psychologically vulnerable position

high resting areas

visual barriers for the animal to feel hidden

Water Sources:

at least one water source should be provided: pools, ponds, waterfalls, streams

Enclosure Substrate:

Naturalistic exhibits are optimal. Example:

rocks, bamboo, trees, wooden benches, shelves, ropes, cave, hammock, plants, vines, etc.

Cleaning:

Daily inspection of exhibit to remove fecal material, waste products and enrichment items

Animal care staff should never enter an enclosure with a jaguar

Holding Areas:

Every animal should have its own holding area that can be used while animals are off-exhibit for maintenance or cleaning

# data[].attributes.body
Temperature and Humidity

Jaguars need accommodations for when the temperature drops below 10ºC or exceeding 29.4ºC, but can adapt well to humidity. Indoor humidity should be 30-50%.

To keep up with these guidelines, institutions should provide:

Water features (strongly recommended)

Heat sources

Adequate shelter

Adequate ventilation

Indoor/Outdoor exhibits should be considered

Light

Light should provide unrestricted viewing of the animals and staff for safety at all times

Fluorescent lighting

Full Spectrum UV bulbs

Natural Skylights

Sound

loud noises and unusual activity should be limited to prevent stress

Water and Air Quality

Proper ventilation is required

glass barriers and separate ventilation systems between exhibits and public areas

Water features should be clean enough to be a drinking source

filtration system, or drained and sanitized on regular basis

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Jaguar Care Manual (2016)

# data[].attributes.body
Jaguars are endangered in the United States, and near threatened according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In AZA-accredited institutions, there are many guidelines to ensure superior welfare for these animals.