Project Puma

Mountain Lions (Puma concolor) are known by different names throughout the country: puma, lion, or cougar. They are classified as endangered in certain areas of the United States. Responsible conservation and management of any species begins with an idea of the abundance and distribution of that species. Unfortunately, large cats in particular are notoriously elusive and do not lend themselves to standard population estimate techniques. Furman University has undertaken a project to develop a cost-effective technique to estimate populations of these magnificent animals in New Mexico and Arizona. Population estimates will help the wildlife authorities make informed management decisions for their areas including decisions such as whether or not to allow hunting. Without accurate information, these management decisions could serve as a detriment to the native population. This particular study will also obtain baseline health data on the pumas and determine, via radio-collar data and remote cameras, if there is interaction between puma and the endangered reintroduced Mexican Wolf or puma and bighorn sheep. The project also provides educational programs for the public through the New Mexico Museum of Natural History. For more information, visit furmancougar.blogspot.com.