Adult males average 200 pounds and may exceed 300 pounds. Adult females average 150 pounds. Jaguars are muscular, with relatively short, massive limbs and a deep-chested body.
Jaguars are cinnamon-buff in color, with many black spots.
A black or melanistic color phase occurs primarily in the southern parts of the range. High affinity to areas associated with water. Cubs remain with their mother for nearly two years. Females begin sexual activity at three years of age, males at four. Studies have documented few jaguars more than 11 years old.