Jaguar
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The Jaguar (Panthera onca) is a new world cat found from the Southwestern United States, south to Argentina.
Such a large range indicates they are a very adaptable cat, at home in a variety of habitats, as long as it contains an adequate supply of food and water.
Jaguars are the only big cat found in the Americas, with the term big cat referring to the cat's vocalization ability. All wild and domestic cats makes sounds such as mews and purrs. Only big cats have the ability to roar, based on the presence of a flexible hyroid bone (it supports the tongue).
The IUCN considers them a vulnerable species. They are listed as endangered in the United States.
© 2004 Patricia A. Michaels.