California Mountain Lion Project
Currently led by Dr. T. Winston Vickers, the California Mountain Lion Project within the Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center has worked with mountain lions in Southern California since 2001, with particular focus on habitat use, prey animals, health and disease, and human interaction. By placing GPS collars on the mountain lions, the project is able to track movements and behavior, as well as document habitat use. This information is gathered to identify potential conflict points in shared habitats to help prevent tragedies for humans, pets and wildlife — this information is then shared to help educate the public on the importance of mountain lions to the ecosystem and what can be done to prevent their decline in the state.