Although populations of jaguar (Panthera onca) are abundant in some areas, this wild cat – the largest living today in the Americas – is threatened by illegal hunting, deforestation, and loss of wild prey. Jaguars have been eradicated from 40 percent of their historic range.

What is the biggest threat to jaguars?

The survival of jaguars is uncertain because of three primary threats: habitat and prey loss, wildlife trafficking (illegal sale of jaguar fangs, hides, and cubs), and retaliatory killings. Through projects with our partners, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service attempts to address these daunting threats to jaguars.

How many jaguars are left in the world 2020?

Conservation groups estimate there are only 15,000 wild jaguars left, mostly due to poaching and deforestation.