The MeatEater Podcast

Ep. 796: Heart of the Jaguar

Nov 24, 2025
Join James Campbell, an author and natural history journalist, as he dives into the captivating world of jaguars. He discusses his book, Heart of the Jaguar, and the significance of jaguar conservation efforts. Campbell shares personal tales of first sightings in the Pantanal and highlights the historical ranges of these magnificent cats in North America. He also reveals the impact of the pelt trade and examines the challenges faced in reintroduction efforts. Discover the emotional connection humans have with jaguars through indigenous culture and conservation initiatives.
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INSIGHT

Jaguar Population Is Region-Dependent

  • Jaguars are concentrated in the Amazon and Pantanal, making global population estimates vary widely.
  • Outside those strongholds jaguars are endangered, so regional context changes their conservation status.
INSIGHT

Corridor Strategy Preserves Genetic Flow

  • The Jaguar Corridor aims to connect core populations across 5,000 miles to preserve gene flow.
  • Conservationists target 30 secure units and 30 connected units by 2030 to sustain the species.
ANECDOTE

Seeing A Wild Jaguar In The Pantanal

  • James Campbell first saw a jaguar in the Pantanal during COVID while boating a river.
  • The animal rose, drank, looked at them, then walked broadside down the river, leaving Campbell awed.
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