Getting to Know the Pumas and Jaguars of Xcaret

Learn about the Big Cat Conservation EffortsToday

I want to talk about big cats, beloved species that many admire. If you're interested in learning more about them and how we care for them at Xcaret, keep reading—this will be very interesting. We will explore the lives of the pumas and jaguars at Xcaret and Xplor, and highlight the animal welfare efforts made by Xcaret's Conservation area.

Join us to learn more about these magnificent species and the dedicated work towards their preservation!

How Many Pumas and Jaguars Are There in Xcaret?

Currently, we have a feline population consisting of four jaguars, including two melanistic (one female and one male) and two spotted (one female and one male). Additionally, there is one male puma in the same area.These felines are distributed across two of our parks.

Animal Welfare Work at Xcaret

The specimens under the professional care of the group have a preventive medicine plan, which consists of medical check-ups ranging from general to specific.

In the case of felines, caretakers monitor their behavior visually every day and evaluate their physical condition. They also perform voluntary weighing once a month.

More specifically, once a year, veterinarians schedule a complete check-up, which includes a physical exam, dental cleaning, X-rays, ultrasound, blood tests, and deworming.

Their Diet

The diet of the specimens is formulated by the nutrition department and must align with their specific nutritional needs, physical characteristics (size and weight), activity level, etc.

It primarily consists of beef, pork, and chicken, and varies from specimen to specimen. It is important that this diet is related to the environmental enrichment plan.

Environmental Enrichment for the Felines

Environmental enrichments are “toys” for the specimens aimed at strengthening natural behaviors.  These enrichments are produced by the caretakers, as well as by collaborating volunteers from different areas of the group. Workshops are organized for production, and messages about environmental education are shared.

There are different types of environmental enrichment, one of which is food enrichment: piñatas are made, filled with the felines' diet and straw from the deer habitat, and then placed in each specimen's habitat for them to find. This way, they experience the sensation of having hunted their own food.

The production of these enrichments is carried out using the S.P.I.D.E.R. methodology, which stands for (S: setting goals; P: Planning; I: Implementing; D: Documenting; E: Evaluating; R: Re-Adjusting).

This model helps maintain consistency in the processes involved. The model includes the following steps:

• Goal Setting  (For what the enrichment will be produced)
•   Planning  (What materials we will need and where and how it will be placed) 
• Implementation  (The enrichment is produced and placed) 
• Documentation/Recording  (Notes and photographs are taken at the time of placing the enrichments)
•   Evaluation  (Determining whether the initial goals of the model were achieved)
•   Re-adjustment  (Adjusting as necessary based on the evaluation)

Current Status of the Pumas and Jaguars

Based on the Mexican Official Standard 059, which considers four risk categories: endangered (P), threatened (A), rare (R), and subject to special protection (Pr), our pumas and jaguars are classified as follows:

Jaguar (Panthera onca): Listed as endangered (P) in the Mexican Official Standard 059.

Puma (Puma concolor): Listed as endangered (P) in the Mexican Official Standard 059.

That is why the care and conservation of these species, as well as other species in the parks, is very important to us, so we have the:

Xcaret Wildlife Monitoring Program

Through wildlife monitoring (camera trapping), we aim to contribute to the protection and conservation of wildlife.

For example, in Xel-Há Park, due to its geographical and topographical characteristics, as well as its conservation status, it serves as a natural shelter for a large number of wildlife species, particularly terrestrial mammals. Therefore, monitoring is conducted to assess the conservation status of the ecosystem and the species that inhabit it.

In 2015, an agreement was signed to implement plans, programs, projects, and actions that allow for the conservation, protection, research, and environmental education of the jaguar (Panthera onca) in the state of Quintana Roo.

These monitoring activities are carried out monthly in Xel-Há Park, showing that a wide variety of species, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, continue to exist on the property.

The specimens under our professional care meet the highest standards of animal welfare, which is why we are certified by national associations such as the Association of Zoos, Breeders, and Aquariums of Mexico (AZCARM).

Five Domains Model for Felines

• Experience: We provide spaces that promote positive experiences and integrate activities that stimulate them mentally and sensorily, such as environmental enrichments. 
• Behavior: We encourage the expression of natural behaviors for each species, such as socialization, play, swimming, etc. 
• Environment: We ensure that their habitat includes the necessary elements appropriate for each species. 
• Health: We have a preventive medicine plan, vaccination plan, and deworming plan. 
• Nutrition: We provide a balanced diet tailored to the needs of each species.

These animals are not only a wonder to behold but also essential components of their ecosystems, playing crucial roles in the food chain and contributing to the health of natural habitats.

The tireless work of the Xcaret Conservation area serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving these species. Every effort, whether through education, research, or reforestation, brings us one step closer to ensuring a future where both pumas, jaguars, and other species can thrive.

As individuals, we can also make a difference. It is essential that we raise awareness and take action on our part, such as respecting speed limits while driving and exercising caution in areas and roads where these animals live, and not promoting the illegal buying and selling of these specimens.

By adopting sustainable practices, supporting conservation initiatives, and fostering respect for nature, we contribute to a world where biodiversity can flourish. Caring for the planet is not just a responsibility; it is a legacy we leave for future generations.

Let us protect our common home and the wonderful creatures that inhabit it. 🌎❤️