Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Mountain Lions: A Public Survey of Residents Adjacent to Saguaro National Park, Arizona

Abstract

If humans and mountain lions(Puma concolor)are to coexist, managers need to understand how both use an area and understand the local public’s view toward large predators. In spring 2000, the authors conducted a telephone survey of 9 local wildlife managers and a mail survey to assess 493 suburban residents’ knowledge of and attitudes toward mountain lions near Tucson, Arizona. All agencies wanted more information that could lead to improved management of mountain lions. The overall response to the public survey was 52% (493 / [1,000-52]). Respondents’ knowledge of mountain lion biology was low (M= 2.5 ± 0.07 [SE] out of 7.0). Respondents supported management measures that protect mountain lions in all landscapes and opposed measures that removed protections. There is local support of mountain lion conservation, and it is recommended that educational opportunities be created for the local public so residents are informed about mountain lion research and management. H. Messing provided guidance and support in the creation and implementation of this project. N. Kline provided assistance in the development of the survey instrument. S. Smith, R. Steidl, and P. Jones assisted with statistical analyses. W. Grunberg and A. Honaman assisted with GIS mapping and provided use of lab facilities. This study was funded by the United States Bureau of Reclamation and the United States National Park Service.