IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Hutlet, J. | |
| The Cougar in Manitoba | |
| 2005 Full Book | |
Due to the number of reported cougar sightings in Manitoba over many years, this study was undertaken to determine if experts believe that Manitoba can support a resident cougar population, and what laws and regulations can assist in protecting the cougar to ensure a stable population in the province. There have been many cougar sightings over the years, with one shot in 1973 and two killed in 2004, which confirms their existence in Manitoba. The cougar is a protected species under The Wildlife Act in Manitoba Endangered Species Advisory Comittee recommended a status for the cougar as Vulnerable on 28 September 1992, this designation was not acted upon. The Wildlife Act protects the cougar against hunting, trapping, talking, killing, or capturing except as permitted by the Act or the regulations. The Manitoba Conservation Data Centre (CDC) lists the cougar as S2S3 - halfway between S2 (rare throughout its range in Manitoba and may be subject to extirpation) and S3 (uncommon in the province). This study determined some of the factors that could better protect the cougar in Manitoba by analyzing expert opinions dealing with quality cougar habitat, and by suggesting management ideas for the sagety and well-being of both the cougar and human population. Opinions on these matters were gathered from both Canadian and United States cougar experts and Manitoba habitat specialists using the Delphi method. This is a survey technique in which specific questions are posed to experts in the field to determine their opinions. Experts do not have contact with each other. The results are assessed and further questions on the matters are re-mailed to them for further discussion with hopes that a consensus can be reached. The Delphi method was successful in developing and identifying many issues, such as determining criteria for resident versus migrating cougars, corridor importance, habitat availability, and the importance of protective laws. The Delphi method proved most beneficial in areas where each panel had expertise and where the panel member was asked to answer specific, single-dimensional questions. After combining their testimonies, it was determined that Manitoba has sufficient habitat, corridors and prey to support a resident cougar population. However, monitoring and protection in these areas will be needed to ensure a future cougar population. It was also determined that although present laws protect the cougar in Manitoba to some degree, improved legal proposals, provincial initiatives, cooperation by landowners, citizen awareness, and ongoing research are all important factors for ensuring future cougar survival in Manitoba. |
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