Mountain Lion Initiative
Mountain lions are underrepresented in large carnivore conservation in British Columbia. The Mountain Lion Initiative seeks to improve management of the species through the funding of research, coexistence programs, and advocacy and education efforts.
Calls to action
Increased government funding for mountain lion research
Developing a mountain lion management plan
Protection of wildlife corridors that support dispersal
Establishing mountain lion refuges to support source populations
Community-embraced coexistence
Supporting relocation of conflict mountain lions
WORKING TO PROTECT MOUNTAIN LIONS AND THEIR HABITAT
RESEARCH
We provide funding, equipment and field support to a research project which is working to improve conservation management of mountain lions in BC.
COEXISTENCE
We are developing a program that takes a proactive approach to addressing human/mountain lion conflict in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. Lions that come into conflict with people are often shot, rather than moved due to a lack of resources and limited data on factors influencing the success of translocations. Our program will promote the use of non-lethal options in conflict scenarios.
FIELDWORK
Using remote camera traps and tracking, we tell the stories of individual mountain lions. By showing people a different side of the species, one rarely portrayed in the media, we hope to change how the public perceives them. Observing lion behaviour also provides educational opportunities for members of the public.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
We use community engagement to help create informed advocates, building support for the conservation of mountain lions as a species and for the ethical and humane treatment of individuals.
Photo: John E. Marriott
