Watch What This Gorgeous Big Cat Does 1:09… There’s A Reason He’s In That Water!

One of our favorite facts of big cat wildlife is how similarly they often behave like their smaller, domesticated cousins house cats. But we may have finally pinpointed the biggest differentiation: recreational swimming — and for long periods of time.

“Unlike many other cats, jaguars do not avoid water; in fact, they are quite good swimmers,” reports National Geographic. “Rivers provide prey in the form of fish, turtles, or caimans—small, alligatorlike [sic] animals.” They add that jaguars sometimes even climb trees and dive from added heights to catch their water-dwelling prey. You sure wouldn’t catch the majority of small kitties nearing water from those heights (despite video evidence that may suggest otherwise)!

In the video below, we see an incredibly nimble big cat wade underwater for extended periods of time while he hunts fish in his enclosure. It’s mesmerizing watching such a large animal swimming around happily with such ease. You have to see it for yourself. (And remember: While big cats belong in the wild, we never know why animals are held in captivity; some are being rehabilitated for trauma they experienced in their natural habitats.)

Did enjoy watching this incredible big cat swim underwater while fishing for some afternoon snacks? We certainly did.

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