Jaguar Conservation Fund

The Jaguar Conservation Fund (JCF), known in Portuguese as Instituto Onça-Pintada (IOP), was founded in June 2002 by a group of researchers with a strong background of work dedicated to the species. Its mission is “To promote the conservation of the jaguar, its natural prey and habitat throughout the species' geographical range, as well as its peaceful coexistence with man, through research and conservation strategies". The largest part (48%) of the jaguar’s geographical distribution, which extends from northern Argentina to the southwestern United States, lies within Brazil. However, although nationally considered endangered, until the foundation of the JCF few programs focusing on conservation of the species existed. Today, JCF is the only Brazilian NGO (non-governmental organization) devoted exclusively to promoting the conservation of the jaguar. It is currently implementing scientific research in four Brazilian biomes (Amazon, Cerrado, Caatinga and Pantanal) and supports partner organizations in the Atlantic Forest. Research topics include long-term population monitoring programs for jaguars and their main prey species, and management programs to solve the conflict between the predator and livestock ranchers. Additionally, JCF's projects of cultural, educational and social character contribute to conservation of the jaguar, biodiversity, and to reduction of the effects of global warming. In order to facilitate contact between non-Brazilian supporters/sponsors and JCF activities in Brazil, the Jaguar Conservation Fund –US was founded in 2004 as a 501©3 non-profit organization.