Jaguar, Leopard or Panther - What’s the Difference?
2. Anatomy
Height and Length
The jaguar has significantly shorter legs than the leopard. But in terms of shoulder height, both are similar at around 28 to 31 inches (70-80 cm) tall. That's because the jaguar has a larger, bulkier body.
But they differ in their length. The head-torso length is:
- Jaguar: 35 to 77 inches (90-196 cm)
- Leopard: 44 to 72 inches (112-185 cm)
Jaguar Anatomy
Leopard Anatomy
Weight
The jaguar has a massive build and is significantly larger and heavier than the leopard. The heaviest known male jaguar weighed 348 lbs (158 kg).
- Jaguar: 132 to 220 lbs (60-100 kg)
- Leopard: 81 to 198 lbs (37-90 kg)
Head Shape
The jaguar has a broader, squarer, noticeably more rounded head than the leopard.
Jaguar Head
The jaguar has a much wider forehead and a wider jaw.
Leopard Head
The leopard’s head is thinner and more elegant.
Tail
Of all big cats, the jaguar has the shortest tail:
- Jaguar: 18 to 30 inches (45-75 cm)
- Leopard: 26 to 40 inches (66-102 cm)
- Table of Contents:
- 0. Introduction
- 1. Fur Markings
- 2. Anatomy
- 3. Behavior and Habitat
- 4. What Are Panthers?
- 5. What Are Clouded Leopards, Cheetahs, Ocelots and Servals?
- 6. Summary With All Differences
