A handsome cougar appears on the prowl, perhaps searching for dinner. Photo by Hari Viswanathan.

PEEC News:

Mountain lions are secretive and rarely seen, but are an important part of the local ecosystem. Los Alamos sits on the edge of prime mountain lion habitat, and as more people live, work, and explore the outdoors, occasional wildlife encounters may happen.

Fortunately, mountain lions go to great lengths to avoid people.

The Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC) will present an engaging and family-friendly talk during which Bandelier National Monument Natural Resources Program Manager Sarah Milligan and wildlife biologist Mark Peyton will explore the fascinating lives of these elusive big cats, share practical tips for staying safe in lion country, and discuss how the community can peacefully coexist with wildlife. Learn how to appreciate and respect wild neighbors while keeping safe.

The event is 6-7:15 p.m. Thursday, May 22 at the Los Alamos Nature Center, 2600 Canyon Road or virtual. Admission is free (please select an in-person or virtual ticket). To register online, click here.

About the Presenters:

Sarah Milligan oversees wildlife conservation and habitat management in Bandelier – one of New Mexico’s most diverse ecosystems. With extensive experience in wildlife management throughout the greater Los Alamos area, she has worked closely with local communities to promote coexistence with native species. Passionate about public outreach, Milligan is dedicated to helping people better understand and appreciate the wildlife that shares the local landscapes.

Mark Peyton is a wildlife biologist and co-owner of Wildlife Conservation and Creative Design LLC, a company dedicated to connecting people with the natural world through conservation and science communication. Pursuing a PhD at New Mexico State University, Peyton’s research focuses on mountain lion behavior and ecology in the Jemez Mountains. As a previous National Park Service biologist, he is dedicated to wildlife conservation and furthering human-wildlife coexistence.