California Department of Fish and Wildlife
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Currently Approved Mountain Lion Research Projects

This page provides an Executive Summary for CDFW-authorized mountain lion research projects occurring in California.

Southern California Mountain Lion Study

University of California, Davis - Wildlife Health Center

Dr. Walter Boyce, DVM, PhD, MPVM, Dr. Winston Vickers, DVM, MPVM

Mountain lions in California are important indicators of ecosystem health and connectivity, especially in southern California where the landscape is highly fragmented by previous and ongoing / planned human development. This research will expand knowledge regarding mountain lion disease and toxin exposure, genetics, and interactions with wildlife prey species, humans, and domestic animals. Additionally, this research will assess mountain lion use of specific southern California conserved lands, linkages, and road crossings in order to help guide conservation and road planning decisions.