In Panama, a young jaguar was killed on the Panama-Colón highway, marking the first such incident in 20 years. The Ministry of the Environment (MiAMBIENTE) emphasized the urgency of improving prevention and mitigation measures on all roads and paths that cross forest ecosystems, habitats for wildlife. The ministry highlighted that these incidents not only threaten the survival of key species like the jaguar, a top predator and essential ecological regulator, but also pose a risk to public road safety. In response, MiAMBIENTE urges authorities and construction companies to prioritize the inclusion of wildlife crossings in the planning of new projects or road expansions. The Minister of the Environment, Juan Carlos Navarro, stated that the death of this jaguar "should be a call to attention for the entire population on the necessary coexistence between development and nature." It is presumed that the jaguar came from Chagres National Park or Soberanía National Park, and its natural movement forced it to cross the Panama-Colón highway, where it was fatally struck. The body of the feline, identified as a juvenile, was immediately transferred to MiAMBIENTE's Wildlife Veterinary Clinic, arriving at 9:45 PM. Once in custody, specialists proceeded to take biometric measurements and collect biological samples. Erick Núñez, head of the Biodiversity Department of MiAMBIENTE, stated that the incident "shows the need to increase environmental awareness and apply effective measures that allow for coexistence between road development and wildlife." Ricardo Moreno, president of the Yaguará Panamá Foundation, recognized the joint work between institutions and communities but emphasized that "every individual counts" and that "the loss of a jaguar is a significant impact on wild populations and the balance of ecosystems." In response to the situation, MiAMBIENTE will reinforce the connectivity infrastructure of biological corridors by locating wildlife crossings and will carry out more awareness campaigns in conjunction with various NGOs. The ministry also promotes the installation of signage and strict speed limits in collaboration with responsible entities, seeking that drivers exercise maximum caution on routes near wild areas. MiAMBIENTE expressed its deep regret over the loss of this species, which is classified worldwide as critically endangered and formally protected in Panama (Resolution DM-0657-2023). The ministry concluded its communication by reminding the public of the importance of reporting any wild animal in danger or in need of assistance through the free hotline 311 or the official social media networks.
