Mountain lions are an essential part of Utah’s ecosystem, playing a key role in controlling deer populations and maintaining a healthy balance of prey and predator species. Cougars, as they are also known, are also apex predators, meaning they are at the top of the food chain and help to keep other wildlife populations in check.

Despite their importance, mountain lions face a number of threats in Utah, including habitat loss, poaching, and collisions with vehicles. As a result, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) and other conservation groups are working together to protect these iconic big cats.

One of the most important things UDWR does to conserve mountain lions is to monitor their populations and develop management plans based on the latest science. UDWR also works to educate the public about mountain lions and how to coexist safely with them.

In addition to UDWR, a number of non-profit organizations are also working to conserve mountain lions in Utah. One such group is Utah Mountain Lion Conservation (UMLC). UMLC works to improve social tolerance of mountain lions through education, research, and community engagement.

UMLC also conducts research on mountain lions, including their movement patterns, habitat use, and diet. This research helps UDWR to better manage mountain lion populations and develop effective conservation strategies.

Another important partner in mountain lion conservation is the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). NWF works to protect and conserve wildlife habitat across the country, including in Utah. NWF also advocates for policies that support mountain lion conservation.

The conservation of mountain lions in Utah is a collaborative effort that involves a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the public. By working together, we can ensure that these iconic big cats continue to play an important role in Utah’s ecosystem for years to come.

How You Can Help Conserve Mountain Lions

There are a number of things you can do to help conserve mountain lions in Utah:

• Learn about mountain lions and their habitat. The more you know about these animals, the better equipped you will be to help protect them.
• Support organizations that are working to conserve mountain lions, such as UMLC and NWF.
• Advocate for policies that support mountain lion conservation.
• Be aware of your surroundings when you are in mountain lion habitat. Take precautions to avoid encounters with mountain lions, such as hiking with a companion and making noise as you go.
• If you see a mountain lion, do not approach it. Back away slowly and keep eye contact with the animal.

By taking these simple steps, you can help to ensure that mountain lions continue to thrive in Utah for generations to come.

©️ Rocky Mountain Dispatch 2023