In view of the recent report of a jaguar sighting near an urban area in Tulum, Rocío Peralta Galicia, president of the participatory environmental surveillance committee of the organization “Jaguar’s Gaze,” urged the public to become familiar with the necessary steps to follow in case of encountering a feline of this species.
The interviewee recalled that a few days ago, citizens posted on social media about having seen a jaguar in the area known as Tankah, but this has not been “neither the first nor the last case.” Hence, it is crucial to understand the measures to be taken upon observing them.
Peralta Galicia explained that this species naturally roams throughout Quintana Roo, and this occurs because humans have encroached upon their habitats due to residential developments in the jungles.
She emphasized that in the event of any sighting in urban or adjacent areas to the jungles, it is necessary to call the local fire department or dial 911, and the authorities or specialized groups will respond to the report following the instructions of the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa).
Regarding the actions that residents can take, it is important to secure their dogs and other animals. “That alone is sufficient to prevent this feline from lingering in these places.” She advised the population not to fear them, nor disturb or pursue them for hunting purposes.
She expressed that the public should also be aware of the conservation of this animal and the privilege we have as a municipality and state to have the presence of this feline.
“It is important for people to learn to respect because we coexist with the jaguar, which naturally inhabits the entirety of Quintana Roo. The jungles are part of its habitat, and we must learn to coexist because even humans have greatly encroached upon its habitats with constructions and developments that have caused these specimens to move,” she added.
She made it clear that this species is endangered, so they cannot be killed, trafficked, sold, or consumed. Any person who does so will be committing a federal crime.
