The bay lion, or unicolored cougar, is a species native to the Santa Catarina area and of concern to conservationists. With unique characteristics and significant ecological importance, felids face threats that put them in danger of extinction.

The bay lion is one of the animals most affected by sport hunting in the Atlantic Forest – Photo: Pexels/Reproduction/ND

Biologist and technician from LAMAQ (Laboratory of Aquatic Mammals) Mauricio Eduardo Greipel talks about the ecological importance of this species, its characteristics, factors that contributed to its current situation, threats, conservation measures taken, strategies to involve the local community, the relevance of scientific research and details about its modern population distribution.

Ecological significance of the bay lion in the UK

The laurel lion plays a key role in Santa Catarina’s ecosystem, being the state’s largest remaining predator. He used to share this position with a jaguar, whose last record was made in the 1970s.

The biologist explains that “as the top predator of the food chain, the bay lion has a cascading effect on other species, influencing their composition and behavior.”

“Their presence results in other species occupying fewer habitats and presenting more balanced populations, resulting in less impact on areas close to crops and other human habitats,” he adds.

What are the main characteristics and what makes the bay lion a unique and special species?

According to Greipel, the bay lion is an extremely agile and skillful animal, even capable of chasing monkeys up tall trees. Its sharp claws and powerful fangs make it the second largest predator in America, second only to the jaguar.

“In addition, its wide distribution, stretching from Canada to southern Chile, makes it the mammal with the largest distribution area in the Americas. Adapted to different conditions, from deserts to forests, resistant to extreme weather conditions, the bay lion can weigh up to 70 kg, ”adds the expert.

“Although rare, attacks on humans can occur, especially in areas where the species occurs and on foggy winter nights when prey is reduced and bay lions feel more confident approaching human environments without being seen.”

Factors that put the animal at risk of extinction

For the biologist, the main threat to the species is the loss of its natural habitat, which has already been sufficiently reduced. This loss of natural environment amplifies the impact of other threats, such as illegal hunting, sometimes practiced as a trophy.

“Bay lions are also being persecuted for attacks on livestock, especially sheep, which has contributed greatly to the decline in their population,” explains Greipel.

“It is important to emphasize that areas suitable for their presence, especially in the immediate vicinity of nature reserves, should not allow extensive sheep farming, as predators hunt based on vulnerability and the availability of prey, and the creation of stray sheep on the fringes of the forest breeds these conditions.”

Major threats and conservation measures

The main threats facing the bay lion in Santa Catarina are habitat loss due to deforestation and urban expansion, direct human persecution, and illegal hunting.

In terms of conservation measures, Greipel says a number of actions are being taken in Santa Catarina to protect the species and its habitat.

“The creation of protected areas has been one of the most important measures to create protected areas where species can live freely,” he says.

“Environmental laws such as the Atlantic Forest Act and the Forest Code also play a critical role in the conservation of the bay lion.”

In addition, Greipel explains that efforts are being made to raise public awareness of the importance of environmental conservation “to promote the harmonious coexistence of humans and wildlife.”

How the community can help protect the bay lion

According to the specialist, one of the main strategies for engaging the local community in protecting the bay lion is to raise awareness of the importance of this species and its role in the ecosystem.

“This can be achieved through educational campaigns, lectures and events involving schools and society as a whole,” he estimates.

It is also important to encourage active community involvement in feline habitat conservation, such as participating in environmental restoration projects and promoting sustainable tourism that values ​​the species’ presence in the region.

Research helps keep

Greipel also mentions the conduct of scientific research, which is extremely important for the conservation of the species and the adoption of appropriate management decisions.

Surveys provide detailed information about the habitat, behavior, needs, and threats faced by the bay lion.

This helps in developing more effective conservation strategies, identifying priority areas for protection and implementing appropriate management measures.

“Furthermore, scientific research contributes to increasing knowledge about species and their importance in the ecosystem, raising the awareness of society and decision makers of the need for protection and conservation.”

Habitat and population

According to the specialist, the bay lion can still be found mainly in protected areas along the Serra do Mar, Serra Geral and on the Serrano plateau in Santa Catarina.

In terms of numbers, Greipel says there are an estimated 4,000 bay lions in the wild across Brazil.