Fisherman Films Jaguar Crossing Corumbá River in Goiás, Brazil

A fisherman named Davi Gonçalves captured a remarkable video of a puma, also known as a cougar or mountain lion, swimming across the Corumbá River in the state of Goiás, Brazil. The sighting occurred between the towns of Caldas Novas and Ipameri in southern Goiás. Gonçalves, who has frequented the area for two decades, expressed his excitement, having always wished to see a jaguar in its natural habitat. The video shows the feline emerging from the vegetation, entering the water, and returning to the opposite bank, with Gonçalves audibly reacting to the unexpected encounter. Biologist Edson Abrão confirmed the animal was a puma, a species common throughout the Americas, and explained that such river crossings are typical behavior. Abrão elaborated that pumas swim to find food, escape threats, explore new territories, and during mating season. He also noted that cubs learn to swim from their mothers, a skill crucial for their development and survival. The biologist advised that if one encounters a puma, the best course of action is to maintain a safe distance and avoid provoking the animal, as it is a wild creature that may defend itself if it feels threatened. While pumas are generally considered less aggressive than jaguars, they can still pose a risk if cornered or endangered.