November 30th, 2007 Belvedere CA

The Holiday Benefit for Puma conservation was a festive and informative evening where we introduced the launch of two strategic and timely research and conservation studies on the puma (also known as the mountain lion and cougar). Felidae Conservation Fund is collaborating on puma projects both in California and in Chile, and we brought in the scientists to speak about study plans and directions for the respective projects. Dr. Chris Wilmers of UC Santa Cruz presented on an exciting new Bay Area Puma research study, and Dr. Heiko Wittmer of UC Davis presented on a long-term ecological study in Chile. Both studies will examine and answer critical conservation questions impacting puma populations in Northern California and in Patagonia.

There was live music by saxophonist Dave Altschuler, delicious hors d'oeuvres, local wines, and hot mulled cider. Attendees then enjoyed a brief visit by ambassador puma Cheyenne, and orphaned cub, Moonlight. Moonlight lost her mother and brother in the Sierra fires this year.