Jaguars of Brazil... Part 4

    Our time in the Pantanal is coming to an end, but a few surprises still awaited us.  Late yesterday as we approached our base we spotted two Jaguars on the riverbank up stream. This couple was together for a mating session. The male was known to the guides, but the female was new to the area and we were the first ones to get a photo of her. Jaguars, leopards and tigers have unique patterns to their markings that stay the same throughout their lives. Since we were the first to get an image of this female we were given the honour of naming her. We called her  TESA ( a combination of intials, first or last, of the four of us in the boat ).  Tesa's the beauty in front.

   Into the next day, Tesa and her boyfriend were nowhere to be found, but a second couple made an appearance. The male we had seen a few times now, but the female was new to us. They had just started a 5-6 day mating courtship. If successful in 3 months a new set of Jaguar cubs will enter the world.

   After a few hours they moved away from the river's edge for a little more privacy and some quite time to enjoy the sunset. 

   From hear we moved further south to observe one of earth's natural wonders, Iguazu Falls, but the couple days leaving this remote region was full of great surprises.

   Toco Toucans

   Capuchin Monkeys

Tapirs (South America's largest mammal)

   Giant River Otters

   Black Hawks

   Hyacinth Macaws

   Reflecting on the incredible sightings and inspiration this trip has revealed, we spent our last days hiking around Iguazu Falls. Both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides were breath taking.  

   This trip was fantastic on so many levels. Our jaguar total ended at 11 different cats and some with repeated sightings. The bonus sightings of Hyacinth Macaws, Giant River Otters, the bird life and more, brought this adventure into the ranking of one of the best wildlife journeys to date.  We will return to the Pantanal again, if for the only reason  to find our lovely Tesa.

   Hope you enjoyed this Brazilian experience. Next stop Cambodia and Northern Thailand starting late December.

   Safe travels and good health to all.
​Regards, Edward.