The Jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi): A Small Wildcat with a Big Personality

The jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi) is a small wildcat found in Central and South America. It is not very well known due to its small size and the absence of spots or stripes on its skin, which put larger and more charismatic wild felines at risk, however, habitat loss is still a threat.

Photo: Emilio White

Their behaviour is very different from that of other felines with which they share their habitat. They are active during the day and rest at night, the opposite habits of the majority of other carnivores.

This behaviour may be the result of a more recent adaptation to coexistence with other carnivores such as the ocelot, jaguar and puma, which occupy a similar space and place in the food chain.

Habitat loss, the greatest threat to jaguarundi and all other neotropical felids, could also cause competition to become an important factor in the distribution of the jaguarundi.

Appearance

The jaguarundi is a unique-looking wildcat, with a long and slender body, short legs, and a long tail. Its fur is usually brownish-gray or…