casitas azules in Mexico – factsheet

Since 2017, IFAW noticed multiple reports of jaguar predation of dogs in the region surrounding Playa del Carmen in Mexico, due to less abundant natural prey as a result of illegal hunting and habitat fragmentation. In response, IFAW launched its Casitas Azules (Blue Houses) project to help achieve coexistence between both humans and wildlife. This holistic approach included the building of over 130 doghouses and dog pens to provide adequate shelter, and the building of predator-proof chicken coops as well as jaguar deterrents such as lights, which tend to keep them at a safer distance.