How to Survive a Jaguar Attack

Last Updated: January 30, 2024

Should you ever have to encounter a jaguar on a nice trip through the tropical rainforests of South America, or due to the unfortunate bad luck of finding yourself in a jaguar enclosure in a zoo, then here are some tips you'll need to survive those big teeth and claws aimed towards you.

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The last thing you want is a jaguar leaping onto your back unexpectedly from a tree! ^{[1]
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If you see a jaguar that doesn't spot you, then don't disturb it.

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If the jaguar spots you, avoid eye contact, this can be seen as a challenge.
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You will be viewed as prey. Plus, jaguars are much faster than you. ^{[2]
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If the jaguar charges at you, don't run, instead, hold your ground, wave your arms and shout, making yourself seem bigger and more dangerous than you really are.
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If the jaguar does not stop charging, poking it in the eye or punching it on the nose could well discourage it from pressing its attack.
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The jaguar is a very unusual killer. Rather than biting the neck, it goes for the back of the head to pierce the brain and kill the prey. Protecting your head could help you survive, although this cat has very strong teeth. ^{[3]
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Will it eventually go away with enough time?

Community Answer

It is very rare that you will ever see a jaguar and if it shows itself to you I would recommend going back the way you came because you might be getting too close to its den. As in almost all animals, jaguars are more afraid of you than you are of them.

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Why do jaguars stay in trees?

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They are strong climbers and usually drag their prey up the tree to eat to prevent the loss of their prey to other animals.

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If I have meat with me, should I throw it somewhere to try to send the jaguar in that direction?

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Absolutely not! The jaguar will see that you have food and it will be more attracted to you. Don't do anything to draw attention to yourself.

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Tips

You are more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by a jaguar.They very rarely attack humans. ^{[4]
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Jaguars are said to bite harder than tigers and lions!

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Black panthers are a type of black jaguar, for the record.

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Warnings

Never go near cubs either. Mothers will be extremely defensive.

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Never approach a wild jaguar.Use camera lenses instead.

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