AnimaliaHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Herpailurus yagouaroundi
Jaguarundi
(Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1803)
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
The Jaguarundi is an unusual-looking feline, with an elongated body, short legs, small ears, and a very long tail, giving it an appearance similar to an otter or a grison. Its fur is short and uniform, occurring in two main color phases: a dark gray to blackish one and a reddish or chestnut one. Unlike most Neotropical felines, it has no spots or stripes in its adult stage. It is a medium-sized, agile animal with circular pupils, a trait shared with big cats that reflects its diurnal hunting habits.
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Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Chordata
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Mammalia
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Carnivora
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Felidae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Herpailurus
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1803)
Record Completeness
95%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Decreasing
Breeding SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Carnivore
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
It is an extremely adaptable feline that inhabits a wide range of ecosystems, from dense tropical rainforests to dry scrublands, savannas, and agricultural areas. It shows a strong preference for areas with dense cover (thickets) near water sources. In Costa Rica, it is common in the lowlands and middle elevations of both slopes, and is frequently sighted at forest edges and rural areas due to its activity during the day.BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
It is an opportunistic and solitary hunter. Although terrestrial, it is an excellent swimmer and climber. Its diet is varied and includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, and even insects. Being diurnal, it avoids direct competition with the ocelot and margay, which are primarily nocturnal.Social ActivitySocial structure: whether the species is solitary, paired, or colonial; hierarchy and communication. Multi-lang
Mainly solitary, though pairs have been reported moving together occasionally.Feeding GuildWhat the species eats, how it forages or hunts, and its role as a consumer in the food web. Multi-lang
Carnivore.Trophic Chain DetailsSpecific interactions in local food webs: prey species, predators, competitors, and scavengers. Multi-lang
Intermediate predator (Mesopredator). Controls rodent and reptile populations. It is occasional prey for larger predators like pumas or jaguars.Reproductive BehaviourMating strategies, courtship displays, nesting or spawning behavior, and parental care. Multi-lang
Gestation lasts approximately 70 to 75 days. Litters are usually 1 to 4 offspring born in dens protected by dense vegetation.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
50.0 - 77.0 cm
Weight (Grams)
3.50 kg - 9.00 kg
Offspring per cycleTypical number of young (live births, eggs, or seeds) produced by one adult in a single reproductive event or breeding season.1 - 4
Sexual DimorphismObservable physical differences between males and females of the same species (e.g., size, coloration, features).No
Lifespan
Sexual MaturityAge at which the individual becomes capable of reproducing for the first time.
2 - 3 Years
Gestation / IncubationDuration from fertilization to birth (mammals) or to hatching (egg-laying species).
70 - 75
Lifespan EstimatedExpected duration of life from birth to natural death under wild conditions.
Males10 - 15 Years
Females10 - 15 Years
Evolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Diurnal Habits: Unlike the ocelot or the jaguar, the jaguarundi hunts primarily during the day. Its circular pupils allow for better visual acuity under sunlight, occupying a different temporal niche than other competitive predators.
Otter-like Morphology: Its elongated body and short legs facilitate movement through dense, low vegetation (thickets), allowing it to chase prey in places where taller cats would struggle.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Habitat loss: The conversion of thickets and secondary forests into monocultures or urban areas reduces its shelter and prey availability.
Human conflict: Because it hunts during the day and nears rural areas, it is often persecuted for predating on poultry.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Complex Vocalizations: It is one of the felines with the broadest vocal repertoire, capable of emitting at least 13 distinct sounds, including whistles that mimic bird songs to attract prey.
Color Polymorphism: Individuals of both gray and reddish phases can be born in the same litter, which previously led scientists to believe they were two different species.