The Belize Zoo
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Short Tail the Jaguar

Short Tail the Jaguar

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Short Tail the Jaguar

Short-Tail was first photographed in Belize in 2009 with his whole tail, and then with most of it missing (for unknown reasons) in 2011. Later, he was seen on a camera in Guatemala in 2013 before returning to Belize in 2014. But, it wasn’t until a conference in 2018 that researchers realized this was the same individual, and the first recorded transboundary jaguar in the region.

Description

The Jaguar (Panthera onca) is a powerful big cat with a distinctive golden-yellow coat and dark rosette markings. Native to various ecosystems in Belize, including rainforests and savannas, these felines are apex predators.

Interesting Facts

  • Scientific Name: Panthera onca
  • Habitat: Inhabits diverse landscapes in Belize, showcasing adaptability to different environments.
  • Diet: Apex predators, feeding on a variety of prey including deer, capybaras, and caimans.
  • Behavior: Solitary and territorial; play a crucial role in regulating prey populations and maintaining ecological balance in Belize.

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Opens Sun 8:30 AM
Local time · America/Belize

Sunday08:30 – 17:00
Monday08:30 – 17:00
Tuesday08:30 – 17:00
Wednesday08:30 – 17:00
Thursday08:30 – 17:00
Friday08:30 – 17:00
Saturday08:30 – 17:00
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Made for wandering. Built for Belize.
Updated 10/31/2026 · Online