Forest Department Clarifies Recapture of Jaguar Linked to Livestock Attacks

The Belize Forest Department is clarifying what it says is misinformation circulating on social media regarding the recent capture of a jaguar known as Anri.  Acting Chief Forest Officer John Pinelo contributed this morning to The Morning Show on Love FM and Love Television, where he explained the circumstances that led to the animal being recaptured.  Pinelo told listeners that the jaguar had previously been captured in August of last year after it was identified as a potential conflict animal. At that time, wildlife experts conducted a full veterinary assessment, fitted the animal with a satellite tracking collar, and released it into the Northeastern Biological Corridor so its movements could be monitored.  However, earlier this year the Forest Department began receiving reports of livestock being attacked in the community of Lemonal Village in the Belize District. Working alongside the Corozal Sustainable Future Initiative Jaguar Team, officers installed camera traps to identify the animal responsible. Footage later confirmed that the jaguar involved was Anri. Pinelo explained that after confirming the animal’s identity, authorities set a trap in the area to safely recapture the jaguar in order to prevent further conflict with residents and livestock.

The jaguar was successfully captured yesterday morning and is now undergoing another full veterinary and physical assessment by wildlife specialists. Preliminary observations suggest the animal may have a damaged canine tooth, which could affect its ability to hunt natural prey and may influence whether it can be safely released back into the wild. Pinelo emphasized that the department’s actions were guided by both public safety and wildlife management protocols, noting that officers also worked closely with residents of Lemonal Village throughout the operation.