Now that the pressure is off after seeing 3 Jaguars, we go into the next few days a little more relaxed and very excited. Heading out early morning we search the river banks where the cats were seen last night. It didn't take long for us to see our first Jag of the day. The first male from yesterday was hunting along the river up stream from our location. For over an hour we slowly followed him along the shadows of the river edge.
The next day we moved a good distance up river. There were reports of a mother Jag & 2 cubs spending time along the river. Our boat man turned up the throttle and off we went. Along the way we paused for amazing photo ops of caiman basking in the heat of the day. You don't pass by one amazing thing just to get to another... if its meant to be, its meant to be.
After a few hours we reached the general location of the Jag family. By late afternoon we came upon the family we searched for. From this first photo you can see how easy it is to pass by Jaguar after Jaguar if they don't wish to be seen. To remain stealth, or escape the beating sun, these cats just tuck themselves into the shadows along the river and virtually disappear.
We didn't wait long before the cubs started to get restless. The mother seemed to move with calculated purpose, while the cubs seemed to explore every little aspect of the river bank. Under the watchful eye of their mother they continuously learn from their her guidance and the environment around them. Here the mother leads them along the water and prime hunting areas. Everything needs water to survive and all creatures, including these incredible predators, live, breed and die along the river.
Cub 1
Cub 2
Mom made one more appearance before the family went deeper into the jungle and the sun set closing out another amazing day.
We always maintained a good distance from the Jaguars. These amazing creatures are very comfortable with boats around, as these waterways have been used by local fisherman for generations. I am beginning to realize this area is a very special place. My mind is racing with the what our remaining days will bring.
Hope you enjoyed Part 2. Our focus in the next days will switch to Hyacinth Macaws, more River Otters, and of course more Jags.
Safe travels, Edward
Hope you enjoyed Part 2. Our focus in the next days will switch to Hyacinth Macaws, more River Otters, and of course more Jags.
Safe travels, Edward
