A Functional Response in Resource Selection Links Multiscale Responses of a Large Carnivore to Human Mortality Risk.

Theory suggests that animals make hierarchical, multiscale resource selection decisions to address the hierarchy of factors limiting their fitness. Ecologists have developed tools to link population-level resource selection across scales; yet, theoretical expectations about the relationship between coarse- and fine-scale selection decisions at the individual level remain elusive despite their importance to fitness. With GPS-telemetry data collected across California, USA, we evaluated resource selection of mountain lions (Puma concolor; n = 244) relative to spatial variation in human-caused mortality risk.

A chromosome-level genome assembly of the mountain lion, Puma concolor.

Mountain lions, Puma concolor, are widespread and adaptable carnivores. However, due to their large home ranges and long distance dispersals, they are strongly impacted by habitat fragmentation, which results in small and isolated populations. Genomic analyses play an important role in understanding and predicting the impacts of increased isolation of populations, such as decreased genetic diversity and increased levels of inbreeding.

Nearby night lighting, rather than sky glow, is associated with habitat selection by a top predator in human-dominated landscapes.

Artificial light at night (ALAN) is increasing in extent and intensity across the globe. It has been shown to interfere with animal sensory systems, orientation and distribution, with the potential to cause significant ecological impacts. We analysed the locations of 102 mountain lions () in a light-polluted region in California.

Multi-population puma connectivity could restore genomic diversity to at-risk coastal populations in California.

Urbanization is decreasing wildlife habitat and connectivity worldwide, including for apex predators, such as the puma (). Puma populations along California's central and southern coastal habitats have experienced rapid fragmentation from development, leading to calls for demographic and genetic management. To address urgent conservation genomic concerns, we used double-digest restriction-site associated DNA (ddRAD) sequencing to analyze 16,285 genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 401 pumas sampled broadly across the state.

Minimum habitat thresholds required for conserving mountain lion genetic diversity.

Jointly considering the ecology (e.g., habitat use) and genetics (e.

Habitat use of sympatric prey suggests divergent anti-predator responses to recolonizing gray wolves.

The non-consumptive effects of predators on prey are now widely recognized, but the need remains for studies identifying the factors that determine how particular prey species respond behaviorally when threatened with predation. We took advantage of ongoing gray wolf (Canis lupus) recolonization in eastern Washington, USA, to contrast habitat use of two sympatric prey species-mule (Odocoileus hemionus) and white-tailed (O. virginianus) deer-at sites with and without established wolf packs.

Describing a developing hybrid zone between red wolves and coyotes in eastern North Carolina, USA.

When hybridizing species come into contact, understanding the processes that regulate their interactions can help predict the future outcome of the system. This is especially relevant in conservation situations where human activities can influence hybridization dynamics. We investigated a developing hybrid zone between red wolves and coyotes in North Carolina, USA to elucidate patterns of hybridization in a system heavily managed for preservation of the red wolf genome.