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Mexico’s jaguar population has seen a significant recovery, with a 30 percent increase since 2010. The latest census, conducted by the National Alliance for Jaguar Conservation (ANCJ), estimates the current population at 5,326 individuals, up from 4,100. This increase is hailed as a success story for biodiversity efforts in the country.
The 2024 census involved an extensive survey over 90 days across 15 states, utilizing 920 motion-sensor cameras and the expertise of nearly 50 researchers and community leaders. The survey covered more than 414,000 hectares, marking it as the largest mammal census in Mexico’s history. The Yucatán peninsula emerged as the region with the highest concentration, recording 1,699 jaguars, followed by significant numbers in the south Pacific, northeast, and central regions.
The rebound of the jaguar population can be attributed to several key conservation strategies. Efforts have focused on protecting natural habitats, minimizing conflicts between jaguars and cattle ranchers, and raising public awareness about the species. Community-led initiatives have played a crucial role in these efforts, fostering collaboration with ranchers to prevent livestock losses and reducing retaliatory killings of jaguars. Additionally, campaigns have worked to shift public perception, promoting the jaguar as a national symbol rather than a source of fear.
Despite these positive developments, challenges remain for the jaguar population in Mexico. Habitat loss poses the greatest threat, with the country losing approximately 600,000 hectares of forest and jungle in the past six years. Illegal trade of jaguar parts, such as teeth and skins, continues to be a concern, alongside the dangers posed by new infrastructure, including highways that fragment habitats and increase road mortality risks for the species.
Experts emphasize that while progress is being made, ongoing conservation efforts are essential to ensure the long-term survival of jaguars in Mexico. With adequate funding, effective policy implementation, and continued collaboration among scientists, communities, and landowners, there is hope for further recovery and stability of this vital species.
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