Jaguarandi

The name of this small wild cat fascinates me. Meet the Jaguarundi or felis yagouaroundii. This small member of the feline family is also known by the names jaguarondi, Eyra, and otter cat. It usually averages between 12 - 24 pounds, stands around 24 inches at the shoulder, and inhabits lowland forest and bush areas from Texas south to Central America, Brazil, and Paraguay. Being of two distinct colors, this cat was first thought to be two different species. The gray was called the Jaguarundi and the red colored cat was called the Eyra. It was realized that these two cats were really one and the same with coat color variations, there are no other markings on their coats. The underbelly is usually lighter in colour. In some areas of Mexico the name of "otter cat" was given to this animal. This felid is an excellent swimmer, and will even enter the water to hunt and chase prey species. The head is rather small and flattened, with round shortened flat ears. It has a long sleek body, which is compact and powerful. The short legs make it an excellent stalker, providing a low silhouette as it moves through the bush and flattens itself before pouncing. This description reminds you more of a weasel than a cat. The Jaguarundi is an exceptionally efficient hunter. It will hunt in the day or night. Its prey consists of birds, small mammals, rodents, reptiles, and fish. It has also been known to raid farms for poultry. While basically a ground dweller, it will take to the trees if chased, and moves with great ability from branch to branch. He doesn't seem to be considered a territorial creature, as he tends to keep on the move and will share his hunting grounds with others. In South America, the jaguarundi seems to have a similar relationship with mankind, as did the cats of Ancient Egypt. Some have allowed themselves to become domesticated in return for the run of the village barns and grain stores. Easy pickings as it were! These cats usually have a litter of 2-3 kittens. They are born with spots, which quickly fade, as they mature. Then the kittens will strike out on their own.

Scientific classification: Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Carnivora Family: Felidae Genus and Species: Felis yagouaroundi

Listed below are the 8 known sub species of jaguarandi  Felis yagouaroundi armeghinol  Felis yagouaroundi cacomitli  Felis yagouaroundi eyra

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