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Abstract
Objective: To describe the reproductive characteristics of female jaguars and assisted reproduction techniques.Methodology: A literature review about reproductive characteristics and assisted reproduction techniques was done to document information on this subject. Results: Jaguars are the largest feline native to America; females sizes range from 1.57 to 2.19 m in length and weigh 45 to 82 kg. Jaguar females are ready for mating at about 2 years old and have an estrous cycle every 37 days. The reproductive behaviour patterns of the jaguar in captivity are grouped into four categories: 1) sexual, 2) affiliative, 3) agonists and 4) individual. The gestation period lasts between 91 to 111 days, and usually give birth to one to four young. For assisted reproduction, artificial insemination contributes to the genetic distribution or variability of germplasm.Limitations on study: The destruction of forests and jungles, habitat fragmentation, indiscriminate hunting, the lack of prey and food sources and the conf lict with ranchers put Jaguars on the brink of extinction. Also, there is few information about their reproductive characteristics, which is why in Mexico, it is imperative to generate this information, mainly for free-living jaguars.Conclusions: The reproductive characteristics and assisted reproductive techniques in the female jaguar were documented. However, work is needed on assisted reproduction techniques in this species, which will contribute to the conservation of oocytes or embryos. It is advisable to design protocols to control and induce ovulation in the female Panthera onca.