jaguarundis

Jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouarounda) is a medium-sized wild cat native to the Americas. Former classifications placed it in other genera, but current taxonomy places it in Herpailurus within Felidae. Its range extends from southern Texas and Mexico through Central America and into northern Argentina, with scattered populations in the Amazon region and Atlantic Forest. It inhabits a variety of dense habitats—tropical and subtropical forests, scrublands, mangroves, and savannas—often near water.

The jaguarundi has an elongated body, a small head, short legs, and a long tail. Fur color varies from gray to reddish-brown, usually uniform, with some individuals showing dark markings on the limbs; ventral fur is lighter. Adults weigh roughly 4–9 kg and body length (without tail) about 50–70 cm.

Jaguarundis are mostly solitary and territorial. They are adaptable climbers and swimmers. Diet is carnivorous, including small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish; prey is taken on the ground or in trees. They are typically diurnal or crepuscular in open areas, becoming more nocturnal in dense forests.

Breeding is not strongly seasonal and varies by region. Gestation lasts around 70 days, with litters of one to four cubs. Cubs remain with the mother for several months.

Conservation status: The IUCN lists the jaguarundi as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and fragmentation, with declines in parts of its range. The species persists in protected areas but faces ongoing threats from deforestation and human-wildlife conflict.