Jaguar captured on camera near Tulum ruins in Mexico

Quintana Roo, Mexico — A jaguar (Panthera onca) was recently identified at a short distance from the Tulum archaeological zone in the state of Quintana Roo, according to the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp), which shared the sighting video on social media.

The feline, one of the largest predators in the Yucatán Peninsula, was filmed in the early morning of January 11, approximately 200 meters from the tourist site, proving that this species continues to use areas near human settlements as part of its territory.

The Sighting

According to Conanp’s official publication, the jaguar recording was made possible thanks to a camera trap installed by the Community Vigilance and Monitoring Group of Tulum National Park, a permanent tracking strategy to document the presence of wildlife in the region.

The video was disseminated through its official account, where they highlighted that the feline was captured very close to one of the points of greatest tourist influx in the archaeological zone, despite urban and tourist pressure.

“Jaguar in sight! The Community Vigilance and Monitoring Group of Tulum National Park managed to record this feline again 200 meters from the archaeological zone. Its presence reflects the result of activity management actions, as well as conservation.”

Endangered Species

The jaguar, scientifically known as Panthera onca, is an emblematic species of the region and is classified as endangered both in Mexico and worldwide. Its presence is considered an indicator of ecosystem health, as they require large, connected habitat extensions to survive and reproduce.