The Jaguarundi, One of the World’s Most Unique Endangered Animals
Posted on May 25, 2010 | Category: animals, Featured
Every year, many animals endangered by loss of habitat, overzealous hunters and environmental changes are considered protected species and treated accordingly. The Jaguarundi is one such animal. Added to the endangered species list in 1976, the Jaguarundi is unique in its appearance and behavioral characteristics. Described as one of the world’s freaky weird animals, the Jaguarundi is a small, weasel-like wildcat with short, rounded ears. This endangered animal is similar in size and body type to the cougar or puma.
The Jaguarundi can be found in Arizona, Texas, Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua and Panama. Because of their elongated bodies, short legs and small flattened heads, they are often referred to as otter cats. Like many freaky weird animals, the Jaguarundi has a very unique and varied diet. They feed on birds, rabbits, armadillos, other small rodents and fish. They are nocturnal creatures and prefer to live in dense tropical areas that are close to water sources. Although they are fantastic swimmers, the Jaguarundi prefer to hunt its prey on land and in trees. The endangered Jaguarundi live for approximately 15 years, and have litters of one to two offspring, referred to as kittens.
The Jaguarundi is identified by its characteristic coat, which can range from black to chestnut red depending on its geographic location. Although the Jaguarundi is born with spots, these unique markings disappear as they age. Although most animals endangered by hunting or loss of habitat tend to risk eventual extinction, the Jaguarundi’s population is slowly growing due to aggressive breeding in captivity. The main reason that the Jaguarundi is on the protected species list is because it is an animal endangered by loss of its natural habitat. Despite its endangered status, the Jaguarundi is proving to be resistant to the obstacles it faces and is thriving and growing in number.
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