Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by Amin Tawar
From the arid deserts in the west to dense forest covers in the east, Texas boasts a variety of landscapes. Due to the availability of a variety of habitats, it is no wonder that the state is also home to distinct life forms.
Home to the playful black bear, and majestic mountain lion, the state prides itself in also inhabiting a few of the rarest apex predators like the gray wolf and ocelot.
Ocelots resemble Jaguars a lot and even the name “Ocelot” is a Nahualt word that refers to Jaguars. However, are these big cats found in Texas?
Below I’ve explained everything you need to know about the Jaguar’s presence in Texas.
Do Jaguars Live in Texas?
No, Jaguars do not live in Texas. Historically though, Jaguars were a native species of Texas. Before European colonization, Jaguars lived harmoniously along with the tribes found in the state.
These wildcats were admired and respected by these tribes and also helped the tribes connect to the natural world around them.
Found in various tribal stories, myths, and spiritual practices, these wildcats represented strength, stealth, and grace.
However, European colonization led to various forest lands being converted to agricultural fields. Additionally, as their habitat started contracting, these solitary creatures often encountered ranchers and people who shot and killed them.
As a result, Jaguar’s population declined gradually and by the mid-1900s, there were no more jaguars living in the state of Texas.
While there is no established population of jaguars in Texas, there have been few sightings. Additionally, various conservation organizations and wildlife agencies are taking up efforts to study and monitor Jaguars in the border regions of Mexico and Texas.
When Was the Last Jaguar Sighting in Texas?
The last wild Jaguar in Texas was sighted in 1948. It was shot by a rabbit hunter southeast of Kingsville, Texas.
Since then there have been various unconfirmed sightings of these carnivores. However, as per state wildlife agencies, there is currently no breeding population of Jaguars in the state.
It is also important to note that Jaguars are solitary and their unique rosette pattern in fur helps them hide well in their surroundings. This, therefore, makes it difficult to observe or track them.
However, the state continues to put effort into tracking and maintaining records of any sightings of Jaguars reported in the state.
Jaguar Sightings in Texas?
Yes, there have been occasional sightings of Jaguars in Texas, especially in the southern and western regions of the state.
Although Jaguars once ranged from North America to northern Argentina, these wild cats are currently restricted to Mexico and a few countries in South America. As these carnivores thrive in dense forests and wetlands, it’s no wonder that their largest population now lives in the Amazon basin and Pantanal wetlands.
Jaguars’ presence in Mexico is well documented, especially in its northern borders with the U.S. As these creatures are known to travel far for mates and prey, they occasionally, cross the border into the U.S.
In fact, few of these individuals also make it to the borders of Texas. Despite this, jaguar sightings and their presence in Texas are rare and sporadic.
Also Check Our Guide On Jaguar In North America
Can You Own a Jaguar in Texas?
No, you cannot own a Jaguar in Texas. Jaguars are designated endangered as per Endangered Species Act in the U.S., and therefore it’s legal to possess them. They are also protected by the Captive Wildlife Safety Act.
As per these acts, owning a Jaguar in Texas is prohibited without legal and relevant permits and licenses. While you can apply for these facilities for jaguars, it is tough to obtain them, especially when you want to keep them as pets.
In general, zoos and wild sanctuaries do obtain such permits and licenses as Jaguars will be used for educational purposes.
In addition to legal measures, it is really dangerous to own a jaguar and keep them as a pet. Remember, these are the third largest wild cat after tigers and lions. Muscular and with large limbs, Jaguars are perfectly built to climb, swim and leap.
Even after extensive training in captivity, there is no assurance that jaguars will behave the same. In fact, they can easily retain their natural instincts which would make them potentially dangerous.
Therefore, if you are eager to observe jaguars in their natural habitat, visit a wildlife sanctuary or zoo instead of trying to own/possess these wild cats.
Can You Shoot a Jaguar in Texas?
No, you cannot shoot a Jaguar in Texas. As jaguars are listed in the Endangered species act, both the federal and state government prohibits the killing, harming, or shooting of these solitary and ferocious creatures.
Additionally, it’s important to note that there is no established population of jaguars in Texas. Therefore, no hunting or game seasons for Jaguars are conducted.
The only exception to this is when these big cats threaten a person’s life. In this case alone, the person can shoot the animal as an act of self-defense. However, such shootings must be immediately reported to the U.S. Wildlife Agency for tracking purposes.
Also Check Our Guide On Jaguar In The Rainforest
Conclusion
And that was everything you need to know about the Jaguar In Texas. I hope this article was informative and your queries were answered.
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