The project’s particular focus has been on habitat use and movement, prey selection, health, human interaction, and connectivity among subpopulations that have been fragmented by urban development and highways. In 2016 and in collaboration with the Institute for Wildlife Studies, we expanded the research and geographical scope of the project to include mountain lions in the northeastern corner of California.
Further extension of our project occurred in 2022 when we added the Tehachapi Mountain Range north of Los Angeles, and the northern Gabilan and Diablo Ranges east of the Santa Cruz Mountains, to our portfolio of study sites. By placing global positioning system (GPS) collars on mountain lions, we are able to track lion movements and behavior and document habitat use. This information is critical for identifying potential conflict points in shared habitats, to help prevent tragedies for humans, pets, and wildlife, and to assist land and highway planners and conservation organizations to prioritize where their efforts should be focused. This information is also used to educate the public on the importance of mountain lions in the ecosystem and what can be done to prevent their decline in the state.