In the framework of the International Jaguar Day, the State Biodiversity Commission of Hidalgo (COESBIOH) and the College of Bachelors of the State of Hidalgo (COBAEH) joined forces to carry out the Jaguar Conservation Week, an initiative that highlighted the importance of protecting this emblematic species and its natural environment.
Among the highlighted activities was the conference “Big Cats of Hidalgo”, which offered key information on the ecological role of these animals, complemented by a day of reforestation with native plants. These actions were aimed at students from the COBAEH campuses in Zimapán, Pacula and Santiago de Anaya, with the aim of involving the new generations in the protection of the environment.
In addition, at the facilities of the General Directorate of COBAEH, the exhibition “Hidalgo Jaguar Territory” was inaugurated, an anatomical exhibition created by the plastic artist Ulises Tovar. The exhibited pieces fused art and science, highlighting the majesty of these felines through an innovative and educational perspective.
The event also included a collection of artistic photographs about the jaguar and its habitat. Among the outstanding participants was Juan Carlos Martínez Montes, known as “El Tecuan Negro,” whose images capture the essence and importance of this species in Mexican ecosystems.
Jaguar Conservation Week concluded with the presentation of the Jaguar Pacus 2024 Merit Award, a recognition given to people and institutions that have made significant contributions to the conservation of the jaguar in Hidalgo.
Erika Ortigoza, head of COESBIOH, thanked the support of the general director of COBAEH, Rubén López Valdez, who was key to the realization of this initiative. This effort reinforces Hidalgo’s position as a state committed to the protection of its biodiversity and natural wealth.
The situation of the jaguar in Mexico and Hidalgo
The jaguar (Panthera onca) is the largest feline in the American continent and one of the five largest in the world. In Mexico, it is classified as an “endangered” species according to NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, facing threats such as habitat loss, poaching and roadkill.
In Hidalgo, the jaguar inhabits approximately 35% of the territory, mainly in the regions of Huasteca, Sierra Gorda and Sierra Otomí-Tepehua, areas that are key to its conservation.
Source: eluniversalhidalgo
