International Jaguar Day
Updated: Jun 27, 2022
The jaguar is the largest cat in the Americas. In 2018, International Jaguar Day was created by the United Nations Development Programme, World Wildlife Fund, Wildlife Conservation Society, Panthera, and government representatives from 14 jaguar range states to raise awareness of the critical need for conservation necessary to assure its survival.
The goal of International Jaguar Day is to recognize and promote ways that the jaguar species benefits wildlife and people as well as bring awareness to increasing threats the jaguar is facing. The presence of jaguars indicates a healthy and sustainable ecosystem and its habitat is critical for the sustainability of environmental and natural resources on which hundreds of millions of people depend.
Jaguars are the top predators in their environments, which means they play a critical role in controlling the populations of other species. Without jaguars, grazing prey species could change the terrain of the range areas, causing land erosion and loss of habitat for countless other species of flora and fauna. The jaguar's presence assures balance in the food chain and a healthy ecosystem.
The main threats facing jaguars are 1) habitat loss, 2) poaching, and 3) human-jaguar conflict.
Spiritual Significance of Jaguar
Author's note: Many people refer to “totem animals” or “spirit animals.” As I am not Native American, out of respect to indigenous peoples and sensitivity of cultural appropriation, I have adopted the terms “animal messengers,” "animal allies," and “soul animals" to differentiate that I am not referring to the closed practices of Native American spiritual systems and ceremonies.
Associated with the underworld in Mayan mythology, there's an element of the shadow self in jaguars. Jaguars are graceful and encourage one to work with their inner power, and also illuminate one's shadow self. They are passionate, courageous, powerful animals and, given their ferocity and valor, can help us learn to face our fears.
As with many big cats, jaguars are swift and nimble, meaning they have the balance required to change course and handle change quickly. If you find yourself in a situation that requires sharp decision-making, quick thinking, or adaptability, Jaguar can offer its wisdom to you.
Honor Jaguar with a Symbolic Adoption or with a Donation to Conservation Efforts
You can symbolically adopt a jaguar through World Wildlife Fund (US), World Wildlife Fund (UK), or the National Wildlife Federation.
You can also make a donation to jaguar conservation efforts through Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) or Panthera.
Sources:
Charlie Nichols is the founder of WHE and a staff contributor. Charlie studied Journalism & Mass Communication, Marketing, and Psychology at Madison College in Madison, Wisconsin. She has practiced witchcraft for over two decades and is a certified spiritual empowerment coach, a certified ethical psychic, and a certified crystal healer. Charlie lives on the shores of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin, USA with her partner, daughter, and animal companions.
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