Management of Puma concolor in Southern California using genetic algorithm for rule-set prediction

The puma (Puma concolor), a generalist species, have a realized niche that is constantly changing due to new urban development and management strategies. They have an extensive geographic range, from northern British Columbia down to Patagonia, and from sea level up to an elevation of 4,500 m, which is currently highly fragmented in many key areas. Using historic occurrence points, Genetic Algorithm for Rule set Prediction (GARP) is used to model the potential living area for pumas at the contiguous United States, California, and then southern California regional scales. Then post processing will separate urban areas, roads, and other non-suitable living areas from the model. An analysis of these model results with current conservation strategies and wildlife corridor locations will determine their effectiveness, and allow new strategies to be recommended.