[Article initialement publié le 25 juin 2024]
This feline, also called an otter cat, is said to be related to a puma and emits several sounds. An astonishing discovery.
The jaguarondi is a cat that roars and not only…
In addition to purring, whistling and chirping like a bird, it meows and roars. And these are not its only singularities. This otter cat with a thin, elongated body, short legs and a flattened round head, resembles an otter or weasels.
Although its name reveals a closeness, the jaguarondi is not closely related to jaguars or other wild cats.
The jaguarondi would originally be… a puma
According to a genetic analysis, despite its small size, the jaguarondi is closer to the puma or the mountain lion, which would explain why its scientific name is Puma yagouaroundi.
Between 4 and 7 million years ago, the jaguarondi saw the mutation of its species. Indeed, it would have diverged from the puma to found its own species.
And this evolution is reflected in his physique. Certainly, it has character traits similar to pumas but it is significantly smaller than its “ancestor” which can weigh up to 72 kilograms, the jaguarondi will reach a maximum weight of 7 kg according to the Livescience media.
His vocal repertoire extends to 13 different noises. But no study has yet clarified the mystery of its sounds. In addition, they are very solitary felines, which we very rarely see in the wild, but according to scientists who have studied the behavior of these felines, these noises would be a means of communicating, for example to mark their territory. , or even find partners.
Study and scientific observation of the behavior of jaguarondis
At the Rare Species Conservation Center in Kent, England, two biologists Balazs Buzas and Eszter Gulyas observed the cries of baby jaguaronds. According to their study, these otter cats give a short whistle to make their presence known.
And they make a longer whistle when they want to communicate or greet each other.
Finally, more similar to domestic cats, they purr to signal satisfaction, which is also the case for adult females who purr to call their kittens. And when they are unhappy, they whistle loudly.
Source: livescience
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
