The CPW is in its second year of the Western Slope Mountain Lion Density Study. This year’s area of focus is the Gunnison area.
The Western Slope Mountain Lion Density Study started in the Middle Park area in 2021. The purpose of the study is to help the CPW better mountain lion populations throughout the western slope of Colorado. It is the CPW’s hope that this study will help them make better management decisions based on this more in-depth science. After a successful 2021, Biologist Kevin Blecha hopes to lead a successful 2022 in the Gunnison area.
The Western Slope Mountain Lion Density Study in Gunnison
The Gunnison area was selected for The Western Slope Mountain Lion Density Study to represent the Southwest Region. The study will alternate between the Middle Park and Gunnison areas each year for the next decade.
“For me personally and professionally, I have been hoping for a mountain lion project in my area for a long time. It’s an exciting time. Predator management is a big deal, and having more data to rely on will only enhance our local and statewide management.” – Brandon Diamond, CPW Area Wildlife Manager in the Gunnison Area
CPW officials will go into the field looking to capture mountain lions. Once the cougars are captured, they will be outfitted with a GPS collar and ear tag. On top of the capture projects, CPW officials are employing many trail cameras in the area to gain a better count of mountain lions in the area.
Using Houndsmen to Capture Mountain Lions
CPW officials have also announced they will use local houndsmen and mountain lion hunters to help them tree the animals. Once the mountain lions are treed, CPW officials will dart them with a tranquilizer gun. After the animals fall asleep, officials will collar them, ear tag them, and check their overall health.
“We are actively engaged in this study right now and trying to capture mountain lions in the Gunnison area, If people have a dead animal such as a deer in their backyard that just appeared or if they’ve seen a mountain lion that day, we would like to know about it over the next few months. That will help us with our capture efforts.” – Biologist Kevin Blecha
The CPW is asking anyone that has any kind of mountain lion sightings or finds evidence of a mountain lion to give them a call at 970-641-7060. Likewise, you can read more about this project by clicking here.
You can read more Colorado hunting-related news by clicking here.
