Demographic history of an elusive carnivore: using museums to inform management

摘要: Elusive carnivores present a challenge to managers because traditional survey methods are not suitable. We applied genetic approach using museum specimens examine how historical and recent conditions influenced the demographic history of Puma concolor in western southern Texas, USA. used 10 microsatellite loci indexed population trends by estimating diversity, differentiation effective size. Mountain lions Texas exhibited 9% decline whereas diversity remained stable Texas. Genetic between was minimal historically (FST = 0.04, P 50% temporal size, showed no change. Our results illustrate that declines drift have occurred likely contemporary habitat loss predator control. Population monitoring may be needed ensure persistence mountain region. This study highlights utility sampling collections histories inform wildlife management.