Local perceptions of jaguars (Panthera onca) and pumas (Puma concolor) in the Iguaçu National Park area, south Brazil

摘要: Abstract Jaguars ( Panthera onca ) have been killed by local residents within the boundaries and lands surrounding Iguacu National Park (INP), Brazil. Both jaguars pumas Puma concolor occur in region, however, livestock predation has rarely reported. Our objective was to assess perceptions about pumas. We identified two major factors that distinguished towards species: less people feared puma than jaguar; most believed jaguars, but not pumas, were released into INP authorities. Interestingly, despite those differences these perceptions, feelings species tended be same. Perceptions influenced history of properties, suggesting impact remarkable enough influence carnivores. This is apparently first study on large carnivores