The Belize Zoo has announced the passing of Lindo, one of its most well-known jaguars. He was humanely euthanised after battling chronic kidney disease and the effects of old age.
The Belize Zoo shared that Lindo arrived at the zoo in 2008 from the Linda Vista area in northern Belize after repeatedly attacking livestock. Rather than being killed, he was relocated with the help of the Forest Department and concerned residents.
“In many other circumstances, a jaguar with a learned behaviour of preying on livestock would have been killed. Instead, through collaboration and compassion, Lindo was given the opportunity to live safely and meaningfully,” the zoo stated.
Initially kept behind the scenes as part of the Human-Jaguar Conflict Program, Lindo later became a public ambassador, admired for his striking appearance and calm nature.
“At over 18 years old, he lived a long and meaningful life, a remarkable milestone for a “wild jaguar” in human care,” the zoo added.