We are conducting surveys, monitoring, and research on cougars (puma, mountain lion) on the Ladder Ranch in south-central New Mexico. Here, cougars are of particular interest given their effects on state-endangered desert bighorn sheep and other valuable big game. These projects are also resources for training and education, most notably through the Cougar Field Workshop.

Monday, September 21, 2009

On September 15th we confirmed that LF1 has “kicked out” her yearling kittens from last year to make room for a new litter of 3 kittens. In an attempt to set cameras on her most recent kill I accidentally disturbed her at her new den site. Fortunately I was able to get a good look at LF1, and her 3 new spotted kittens, thought to be born around the 12th of September, in their den under a large rock overhang surrounded by brushy oaks. This is the most recent photo we have of her, but it shows no sign of her older kittens still being around or evidence of the new ones that were on the way.


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