cougars

Large predators like cougars and wolves reduce deer-related car accidents by altering deer behavior and population dynamics. A Washington state study found a 76% reduction in such accidents where cougars are present, while a Wisconsin study noted a 24% reduction due to wolf reintroduction.

The Voyageurs Wolf Project has studied wolves, cougars, and deer in northern Minnesota for over a decade. Researchers recently captured a video of a cougar feeding on a deer, prompting further investigation into Minnesota’s cougar population. Project lead Tom Gable discussed findings via Zoom.