Scientific Program
Las Oncas has a significant scientific impact on wildlife conservation, particularly in jaguar monitoring and habitat preservation within the Osa Peninsula. Through an extensive network of camera traps, the organization collects invaluable data on jaguar populations, behavior, and movements. This data is crucial for understanding jaguar ecology, including prey dynamics, territorial ranges, and interactions with human activities. By tracking population densities and trends, Las Oncas contributes to broader scientific knowledge on the health and sustainability of jaguar populations.
THE WAY WE WORK
At Las Oncas, we place great emphasis on obtaining the most accurate data possible. For us, going the extra mile isn’t optional—it’s essential. Our camera trap network is meticulously monitored, with every device checked once a month. The data collected is then compiled into a comprehensive database, enabling us to efficiently read, sort, filter, and analyze the information.
We are also committed to transparency and willingly share the insights we gather in the field. This is why you’ll often see jaguar footage featured on our social media platforms. However, we take every precaution to ensure the safety of the wildlife we study. Under no circumstances do we disclose the exact locations of our footage, minimizing the risk of jaguars being targeted by poachers. This careful balance of openness and discretion reflects our dedication to both scientific integrity and the protection of these majestic animals.
Camera traps
Equipped with motion sensors and night vision, camera traps capture wildlife day and night in high definition. Installed in the jungle, they allow exceptional observations. Our camera trap network is deployed deep in the rainforest between the Osa Peninsula and the Talamanca Mountain Range and produce remarkable results.
Thus, the scientific data generated allows us to estimate the number of jaguars, their sex, their areas of movement, as well as to observe rare and undocumented behaviors, the abundance of prey, or even to discover new species. This data is shared with the Ministry of the Environment, the biologists and the researchers concerned.
How it works
1. SCOUTING
Exploration of remote areas and selection of strategic locations, ensuring the absence of poachers or gold diggers
2. Installation
Preparation of the site, installation of the camera trap, generally secured to a tree and oriented toward a wildlife crossing point
3. Image collection
Batteries and memory cards replacement, downloading and analysis of footages
IDENTIFYING JAGUARS
Spots recognition: comparison of the spot arrangements and shapes, which are specific to the coat of each jaguar
Life marks recognition: broken tail, cut ear, missing limb, punctured eye, scar, handicap, specific coloration, etc.
Genetic recognition: collection of feces and hair in the field, as well as blood or saliva analysis when an individual is captured
ROSETTES: A jaguar's UNIQUE ID PATTERN
Centralizing crucial data
Las Oncas not only generates its own data but also serves as the primary hub for collecting and analyzing information on jaguars, centralizing data contributed by over 21 partner organizations. With more than 20 years of records, this dataset includes over 1,500 observations representing more than 145 distinct jaguars in Costa Rica's South Pacific region.
For the first time, this unprecedented effort allows us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the jaguar's situation in the region. Never before has so much information been consolidated in a centralized manner, and Las Oncas is the first organization to provide this level of analysis, which is crucial for efficiently guiding conservation efforts.
Jaguars detected by Las Oncas
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Negro
El Dorado
Male 15
Lupo
Panatico
Female 7
Female 6
El Renco
Batman
Encanto
Leonidas
Tala
Female 5
Don Jag
Nubosa
Lwazo
Evander
Lada
Pinto
Gallo
Shāhdosa
Tico
La Quinta
Rüka
SCIENTIFIC Papers
Thanks to the extensive and high-quality data collected in the field through our camera trap network, Las Oncas provides valuable information that supports the creation of numerous scientific articles.
Ampliación del ámbito de distribución del coyote (canis latrans) en la península de osa, costa rica
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Uso de cámaras trampa en Costa Rica y sus aplicaciones en el manejo de vida silvestre
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Support us!
Your support empowers Las Oncas to collect vital data, publish impactful research, and protect jaguars and their habitats. Donate today to help us make a lasting difference!