Birth
Jaguars give birth to a litter of one to four cubs every two to three years. Cubs are born blind and helpless and weigh about 1 pound (0.45 kilograms). They open their eyes after about two weeks and are able to walk after about six weeks. Cubs are weaned at about six months old and become independent at about two years old.
Adolescence
Jaguars reach sexual maturity at about three years old. Males are larger than females and have a broader head and larger paws. Jaguars establish territories and defend them from other jaguars. They are solitary animals except during mating season.
Mating
Jaguars mate in the dry season, which is typically between December and March. Males compete for females by roaring, scent marking, and fighting. The female jaguar gives birth to a litter of cubs in a den, which is typically a cave, rock crevice, or hollow tree.
Adulthood
Adult jaguars are typically 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) long and weigh between 150 and 250 pounds (68 and 113 kilograms). They have a tawny coat with black spots and a white belly. Jaguars are powerful swimmers and can climb trees with ease. They are also nocturnal, meaning that they are most active at night.
Death
Jaguars typically live for 12 to 15 years in the wild. The leading causes of death are poaching, habitat loss, and conflict with humans.