Safe in the heights: trees as safer sites for female jaguars and their cubs in the Pantanal

Abstract While the use of trees has been widely documented for most big cats, this information is scant jaguar ( Panthera onca ). In study, we investigated by jaguars, evaluating different underlying reasons as well frequency tree based on sex, age, and reproductive status. Data were obtained from 2013 to 2020 through a combination direct observations during fieldwork camera trapping focused behavior in Brazilian Pantanal. We 252 climbing events (176 observations, 76 captures). Using only data avoid observers’ influence behavior, fitted generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) with identity random factor test effects presence conspecifics odds animals trees. also used model (GLM) effect adult body weight probability. Age important drivers study area, cubs being more likely climb than adults either sex (odds ratio = 7.91, p < 0.001), conspecifics, irrespective age accentuated that 3.26, 0.005). Adult females (especially lighter ones) commonly recorded observation trees, similar trend our GLMM showed marginally negative Only few male jaguars ascended all cases, these males following heat. suggest are vertical extensions inside home ranges may be safe refuges resting protecting offspring against potential threats, including harassment large males.