PROJECT GRID
Jaguars are identified individually through their unique coat patterns, allowing us to track known animals across years and across different parts of the landscape. This growing dataset is intentionally designed to support robust statistical models that estimate jaguar density, survival, and recruitment over time.
Camera Trap GRID
In 2024, we launched the GRID Project, the first camera trap grid in the Encontro das Águas State Park (PEEA), in partnership with the State Environmental Secretariat of Mato Grosso (SEMA) and Panthera Brasil. Established in 2004, the state park covers 108,900 hectares and aims to protect natural resources and ensure the movement of native wildlife, while also serving as a key area for environmental education and scientific research. PEEA is potentially home to one of the highest concentrations of jaguars in the world.
Encontro das Águas State Park
The GRID Project initially covers an area of 311.1 km², with 17 camera trap stations, each equipped with two cameras. Although access to these locations is challenging, the potential benefits are immense. The main objectives include deepening the understanding of jaguar ecology and behaviour within the park, as well as estimating population density and abundance. The images and videos captured by the cameras also provide valuable data on other local wildlife species, such as ocelots, pumas, and invasive species like the feral water buffalo.
GRID Maps
Here are some maps to help you locate the Encontro das Águas StatePark, in the heart of the Brazilian Pantanal, along with a map of the park itself, which served as our study area for the GRID project.
Each of the 17 points represents a camera trap station we installed to capture images of jaguars.
GRID Results
These are the data collected solely from the camera trap records of our
GRID during the year 2024
As of now, 62 individuals of jaguars have been identified through our camera trap surveys. This includes 14 individuals previously known from earlier monitoring efforts, 32 new jaguars, and 16 individuals that have been photographed but are still awaiting definitive identification. Fieldwork began in July with the installation of the first camera traps, and the final deployment campaign took place in December. In total, camera trapping activities, including installation, maintenance, and removal total of 29 field work days.
The jaguar known as Gerardo was first observed through direct sighting along the riverbanks in 2019. He was named after researcher Gerardo Ceballos, a pioneer in jaguar research in Mexico. Since then, there had been no further records of this individual, and it was believed he had died due to multiple injuries from fights and his advanced age. However, five years later, in September 2024, this same jaguar was recaptured by our camera trap grid, highlighting the effectiveness of combining direct observation with remote monitoring using camera traps.
DSLR Pictures
Jaguar
Cocoi Heron
Capped Heron
Great Black Hawk
Ocelot
Agouti
Green Iguana
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Jaguar
Images from GRID Campaigns
Donations
By donating to the Jaguar ID Project, you can make a real difference in the conservation of these magnificent creatures. Every contribution, no matter how small or big, helps us to continue our work of observing, identifying and conserving jaguars of the Pantanal. In addition to monetary donations, you can also donate other resources or shop with us to support our work. Join us in our mission to protect these beautiful animals and their habitat.
To contribute to the project click on the link below