SLC TRIBUNE LION STUDY (GOOD READ UTAH)

[black eye]

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/outdoors/5 ... s.html.csp

Round two lets see what you all think of this??

[Neff]

The elusive nature of the big cats, compounded by their penchant for nocturnal activities, makes them difficult to count. Bunnell acknowledges that there are fewer lions in Utah than there were 15 years ago.

WHAT?

Mountain lions are often a popular scapegoat for the decline of deer herds in the West. Cougar management in Utah is suggested by an advisory group comprising lion hunting groups, researchers, domestic livestock representatives and groups hoping to protect the species. Final management is decided by the Utah Wildlife Board, and the final plan is often subject to public input and special interests.

WHO?

“There is no evidence that lions are the cause of a decline in deer,” Bunnell said. “There is some evidence that showed they can keep a deer population in decline from rebounding. One study showed a seven-year time lag when lions are around.”

This information was from Kevin Bunnell with the DWR.

Same DWR that had an emergency permit increase for some units.

Very Interesting. No evidence that Lions cause a decline of deer yet they keep a deer population in decline from rebounding? I dont understand.