New techniques and technology, however, including genetic analysis and advanced cameras, offer scientists an opportunity to gather more in-depth insights into the population’s size and range.
In order to protect the park’s Puma concolor population, however, scientists need to answer key questions about the species’ status: How many mountain lions live in Yosemite, and which parts of the park do they use?Ī prior study, conducted between 19, estimated that 45 mountain lions lived in or used Yosemite. With its more than 700,000 acres of wilderness, Yosemite could be a refuge for mountain lions. In 2020, the Creek Fire alone burned more than 300,000 acres of wildlife habitat. Throughout California, though, the wild natural landscapes on which mountain lions depend are disappearing, due to development, dying trees and wildfires. In addition to controlling prey populations, such as deer, they influence the movements of other predators, including coyotes and bears. The backstory: Mountain lions - also known as cougars or pumas - are considered a keystone species. Project overview: Draw on noninvasive research methods, including genetic analysis and camera images, to study Yosemite’s mountain lions and gather data for a statewide species conservation plan.
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