Social interaction in jaguars: does it promote learning?

Abstract

Abstract While wild felids are predominantly solitary, recent studies reveal complex social interactions under specific ecological conditions. This study investigated social behaviors in jaguars (Panthera onca) in the Pantanal region of Brazil, a human-wildlife conflict zone characterized by extensive cattle ranching and jaguar depredation on livestock. Using camera traps at livestock corrals equipped with electric fences, we documented instances of potential social learning and collaborative behaviors among four related jaguars, including an adult female and her two subadult offspring, and another subadult male, being the brother of the adult female. Observations included a failed attempt to breach the electric fence by one subadult, followed by cautious behavior from the other subadults, suggesting social learning of risk aversion. Furthermore, we recorded the group’s interactions at the kill sites of natural prey, indicating potential cooperation in resource acquisition and reinforcing the bond between individuals. Our findings highlight the dynamic social behavior of jaguars in response to human-modified landscapes and the potential for social learning to influence their interactions with both natural prey and anthropogenic threats, such as electric fences designed to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Camera trapping proved to be a valuable non-invasive method for studying these complex social dynamics in elusive carnivores.