Possible Rare Jaguar Attack in Southern Pantanal Renews Alert on Safety and Species Conservation

Incident highlights the importance of respecting wildlife and following expert guidance to prevent accidents

Photo: Major Diego Ferreira 1º Batalhão de Polícia Militar Ambiental PMMS

Last week, a possible jaguar attack on a person was reported in the Southern Pantanal. This rare incident attracted the attention of environmental authorities and rekindled the debate on safety and conservation in the biome. Between 2010 and 2023, only 28 attacks were recorded in Brazil: 5 provoked, 17 unprovoked, and 6 of undetermined cause.

Although uncommon, such accidents can happen, especially in situations involving food left in the wild—intentionally or not—animal carcasses, or the presence of females with cubs near people.

The Reprocon Institute is cooperating with the responsible agencies in the investigation and management of the situation. Dr. Gediendson Araújo, founding member and researcher at the Institute, was contacted by the Government of Mato Grosso do Sul to provide technical support and advise on preventive measures.

This is a delicate moment. We ask that the public remain calm, avoid speculation, and seek information only from reliable sources, in respect for the family's grief.

The jaguar, a symbol of Brazilian wildlife and a significant presence in the Pantanal, is a species threatened with extinction. Despite its frequency in the region, there is no scientific evidence of overpopulation. On the contrary, our studies warn of the species’ vulnerability, which is still at risk of disappearing. This makes it even more urgent and necessary to invest in initiatives that ensure its conservation and promote safe coexistence with local communities.

Its presence plays a fundamental ecological role and boosts local tourism, essential for the livelihood of many families in the Pantanal. Conserving the jaguar also means protecting the balance of the ecosystem and the sustainable economy of the Pantanal.

The Reprocon Institute emphasizes that conservation and safety must go hand in hand. Practices such as “baiting”—which consists of attracting animals with food—are considered environmental crimes, subject to fines as provided for by State Law No. 5.673/2021, Federal Law No. 9.605/1998, and Decree No. 6.514/2008. Moreover, killing a wild animal is also a crime and implies legal responsibility.

To raise public awareness, warning signs have previously been installed in critical areas in partnership with organizations such as SOS Pantanal, UFMS, Passo do Lontra, Morro do Azeite, and the Environmental Military Police of Mato Grosso do Sul.

The Institute ends its statement by expressing solidarity: “Our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Jorge Ávalo”