Jaguar

The jaguar (Panthera onca) is the largest cat of the western hemisphere and is found in Central and South America. It is about as big as a leopard but heavier in build, weighing up to 95kg. Black (melanistic) jaguars are not uncommon. Like the tiger, the jaguar is a forest animal and is most often found near rivers. It swims well and even catches fish, but its usual prey are tapirs, large rodents and reptiles such as alligators and turtles. Jaguars live to about 22 years.