Update on jaguar recently collared in Arizona
The satellite tracking collar fitted onto a jaguar recently captured, collared and released in Arizona is already providing biologists with a better understanding of the big cat's habits and patterns.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department has also confirmed that the male jaguar is the one dubbed "Macho B," which has been photographed by remote trail cameras during the past 13 years. At an estimated 15-16 years old, he is believed to be the oldest known wild jaguar.
"Every indication is that Macho B is doing well and has recovered from his capture and collaring," Terry Johnson, Arizona Game and Fish department endangered species coordinator, said. "Until now, all we've had is a photo here and a photo there, but nothing that shed light on what the species does while moving within or between habitats."
Macho B is one of at least two jaguars known to have roamed southern Arizona in recent years. The other jaguar, Macho A, was photographed in 2001 but hasn't been seen since 2004. It is unknown if he has returned to Mexico or has died.
The collar, which weighs less than 2 pounds and is less than 2% of the animal's total body weight, should not impede his normal movement nor ability to catch prey. It also has a unique feature that will alert biologists should the jaguar cross the border into Mexico.
-- Kelly Burgess
Photo: Macho B, shortly after his collaring and release. Credit: Arizona Game and Fish Department
How great to actually learn more about this cat and hopefully his friends south of the border. cheers, James
Walking Safaris in Kenya
http://www.karisia.com
Posted by: James christian | February 25, 2009 at 05:05 AM
Thank you for the update and additional collar information, Kelly. Do hope you keep the updates and photos coming. He truly is a beautiful animal...
Posted by: Angel | February 25, 2009 at 06:04 AM
Viva El Tigre!
Posted by: Bill R | February 25, 2009 at 07:36 AM
"The collar, which weighs less than 2 pounds and is less than 2% of the animal's total body weight, should not impede his normal movement or his ability to cathc prey."
That's great and all, but you forgot.. "However, if Macho the Jaguar comes in contact with a female jag, she will undoubtedly laugh in his face for wearing such a ridiculous contraption around his neck and thus ruin any chance he has of courting, and ultimately, mating with her, thereby eliminating the possibility of future jaguar cubbies."
Posted by: Jess | February 25, 2009 at 12:42 PM
Several jaguars have been documented in AZ/NM in recent years. Dozens were killed historically, including females with cubs. In 1986, one was killed not far from our home near Willcox, AZ. It's time to restore this species to the USA. Viva el tigre! Visit:
http://jaguarhabitatusa.wordpress.com
Posted by: Dr. Tony Povilitis | February 25, 2009 at 01:24 PM
Beautiful animal. I find it so fascinating that this animal is surviving in the U.S. in an area where they used to reside. It'd be nice to see a comeback.
Posted by: Ryan | February 25, 2009 at 09:27 PM
Thank you for the update on Macho B. Please continue to udate us on his movement patterns and wellbeing.
Posted by: Nakedi Maputla | March 09, 2009 at 03:13 AM