Re(5): Why do you want to confirm the existence of mountain lions in New England? IP: 50.241.112.193 Posted on December 18, 2013 at 02:07:05 AM by weather01089
Well a good number of geneticists feel that they cannot at this point at least with the North American population distinguish individuals. I quoted the report on the Milford cat's DNA, and they also confirmed that. As for quabbin, the 1997 incident involved a cache (beaver) and several scat piles. Mass Wildlife had a test done, said it was canine. Samples were sent to Culver, and Amato, and BOTH confirmed cougar. Im sure you are aware of that. There are far more samples available of the Southern population than northern. Im also sure you must be aware that Culver and others recommended removing the "eastern cougar" distinction, and leaving them as one species based on genetic research. I do have the DNA information on the comparison of the Canadian cats to the Michigan cats, and will find it for you in case you might have missed it. This "escaped pet" label is being thrown around without evidence irresponsibly. The state of CT did that immediately upon the Milford cat getting hit, and it clearly backfired. What about Virginia Fifield's castings from Goshen, MA, and the second set taken more recently in the same area? (cache found near second set) Note hers were confirmed in Oregon. To anyone that isn't wired to deny they are here, its sure obvious a few are, and have been for quite some time. Replies: