CAT News Special Issue 4- The Jaguar in Brazil 21 Humans and Jaguars in Five Brazilian Biomes: Same Country, Different Perceptions

Human perceptions of and attitudes towards wildlife are important aspects of conservation as they indicate and reflect potential impacts on species populations. This study focused on identifying perceptions of the jaguar within local communities in five Brazilian biomes (Caatinga, Cerrado, Pantanal, Amazon and Atlantic Forest) using interviews for adolescents and adults, and thematic drawings for children. The majority of the public interviewed was in favor of jaguar conservation. In general, people presented positive perceptions and values of the jaguar, although there were differences between the biomes in perception of the species and values attributed towards it. Children’s perceptions did not necessarily reflect that of the adults across the biomes. Results highlight the need for regionalized programs addressing the human aspect of jaguar conservation. The relationship between humans and jaguars has several dimensions and has been documented in ancient and presen