Taxonomic and Conservation Status of the Yuma Mountain Lion

Confusion persists over the taxonomic status and viability of the Yuma mountain lion (Felis concolor browni). We conducted a review of the literature on lions in the American Southwest and interviewed resource and public-land managers and wildlife researchers to help us understand the current status of the Yuma mountain lion. We also contacted museums and assembled the most complete set of morphometric data on the Yuma mountain lion. Few if any breeding female lions, a paucity of prey, and a lack of suitable habitat within the reported range of this population cast doubt on its status. We conclude that subspecific status is probably not warranted.