He National Council of Protected Areas (Conap) reported that the melanistic jaguar that escaped from a private collection in San Miguel Pachalícommunity of San Juan Sacatepéquezremains missing since October 23, 2025.
According to Conap, in Guatemala, it is estimated that there are between 1,000 and 1,200 specimens, distributed in small habitats and specific forests in the country.
According to the statement published by the institution, the animal (a variant of the jaguar with very dark fur) was under legal private custody and his loss was reported to the competent authorities.
Furthermore, they reported that They filed a complaint with the Public Ministry (MP) for a investigation to determine the causes of the disappearance and check if They complied with the established management and safety protocols.
No trace of the jaguar
More than five days after starting the search, the Conap confirmed to Free press that the same they have not had a positive result. The work has been concentrated in areas where neighbors claimed to have seen the animal.
The authorities also clarified that until now There are no reports of attacks or affected pets..
Given the lack of progress, the Conap Wildlife Directorate analyzes change localization strategyand are thinking of using trap cameras to avoid noise and human presence that could scare away the feline if it is still in the forest.
What is a camera trap?
According to him World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for its acronym in English), a camera trap It is a digital device connected to an infrared sensor that detects the movement of warm blooded animalsautomatically activating the capture of images or videos.
Modern camera traps can even transmit images in real time via telephone or satellite network, which makes them an effective tool for monitor wildlife.
The search operation
He Conapin coordination with the Nature Protection Division (Diprona)he Guatemalan Armya specialized veterinarian and representatives of jaguar ownermaintains a active operational in the area to locate the specimen of 10 months oldwhose dark color complicates its detection.
@prensalibregt Recommendations issued for possible sighting of missing jaguar in San Juan Sacatepéquez Conap reported on the disappearance of a juvenile melanic jaguar in San Juan Sacatepéquez. The specimen, although raised in captivity, retains natural instincts and could be under stress due to its unknown environment. Authorities ask to remain calm if a sighting occurs, avoid provoking it or attempting to capture it, and notify immediately. They recommend not running, backing away slowly and, if possible, taking photos or location from a safe distance. Read more in Free Press
The authorities also issued a preventive alert in nearby communities, asking the population do not try to capture the animal if they observe it and immediately contact the Conap to the phones 3041-7312 either 3043-1515.
The objective is ensure the safety of people and the animal itselfwho could be disoriented after escaping from their usual environment.
In the meantime, authorities will continue to evaluate technological methods and monitoring strategies that allow it to be located without disturbing the local fauna or putting communities at risk.