Jaguars are large wild cats native to the Americas, primarily found in rainforests, swamps, and grasslands. They are known for their powerful build, distinctive yellow coat with black rosettes, and strong jaws. Jaguars are excellent swimmers and often hunt in water, preying on animals like capybaras, fish, and deer. These solitary animals are the third-largest big cats in the world, after tigers and lions. Jaguars play a crucial role in their ecosystem as apex predators, helping to maintain the balance of species in their habitat. They are currently listed as near threatened due to habitat loss and poaching.