Juvenile Jaguar Killed Near Maya Centre

A young male jaguar was found dead early this morning near Maya Centre village in what appears to be the latest case of roadkill incidents involving the endangered species.

The big cat was discovered between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m. by a local tour guide, about a mile before entering the village. According to the tour guide, the jaguar showed clear signs of injuries that indicated it was knocked down.

The tour guide transported the jaguar to Savanna Forest Station, where the staff weighed and prepared the cat for burial.

Residents and tour guides in the area are pleading with all drivers to slow down and remain alert, particularly on the southern highways where wildlife tend to traverse.

They stress the need for safer driving to protect both wildlife and people. “This is not the first time that we find jaguars dead because of getting knocked down,” the guide told News 5.

The public is urged to report reckless drivers to the relevant authorities and to notify the Forest Department of any wildlife collisions. Reporting these incidents helps ensure jaguar remains are recovered and properly disposed of by the department.