IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Webb, N.F.; Knopff, A.A.; Knopff, K.H.; Allen, J.R. | |
| Management plan for cougars in Alberta | |
| 2012 Full Book | |
Approximately 2,050 cougars are estimated to exist in Alberta. Populations are highest in the mountains, foothills, and southern boreal forest, gradually declining from south to north. Cougars are well established in much of the Parkland region and in the Cypress Hills, and appear to make use of major river drainages in the Prairies region. An abundant cougar population in Alberta is reflective of plentiful ungulate herds, and climate change coupled with human-caused landscape modification should only improve conservation prospects for the species. Cougars are appreciated for their intrinsic value and as a trophy game animal, yet they can cause conflicts with people through predation on pets and livestock, and can create public safety concerns. Cougar management in Alberta will reflect a need to balance cougar conservation with strong public sentiment that opposes the presence of cougars in rural residential and agricultural landscapes. Management objectives and strategies will include: Ensuring that cougar populations are protected from significant decline and that viable populations are maintained. Maximizing the benefits to Albertans through optimum allocation of the cougar resource amongst recreational, commercial, and other users. Maximizing the recreational benefits and enjoyment to Albertans from the cougar resource through the provision of a variety of recreational opportunities, including viewing and hunting. Providing a commercial benefit to Albertans from the cougar resource through tourism and non-resident hunting. Minimizing property damage and risks to human safety caused by cougars by ensuring that cougar predation on livestock and pets is reduced as much as possible, continuing the Wildlife Predator Compensation Program, and removing or relocating offending individuals. Promoting and encouraging scientific and educational activity to enhance knowledge of cougars. |
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