Identifying potential conservation areas for felids in the USA and Mexico: integrating reliable knowledge across an international border

摘要: There are three species of Neotropical cats whose northernmost distribution reaches the USA-Mexico border region: jaguar Panthera onca, ocelot Leopardus pardalis and jaguarundi Herpailurus yagouaroundi. To ensure long-term viability cat populations in this region it is imperative to identify current status northern limits their range conserve important effectively. The purpose study was construct a blueprint priority conservation areas for each region. This done by (1) compiling reliable sightings from early 1900s 2003, (2) conducting field surveys ascertain presence, (3) geographical infor- mation system based habitat mapping workshop which 29 scientists conservationists provided information on species. Participants were asked delineate describe specific where historical recent have occurred, resulting compilation 864 felid 283 had physical evidence. Twenty-one Cat Conservation Units seven Corridors identified as concentrate efforts protecting felids. Only 8.9% these 1.1% currently any protection. An additional 12 requiring further study.