Welcome to Science Matters Colorado, the podcast that explores the environmental issues shaping our beautiful state. Each episode, I talk with experts to help you understand the challenges we face and celebrate the natural wonders we strive to protect.

Today, we’re diving into the world of mountain lions. Recently, Proposition 127—a ballot measure to ban the hunting of mountain lions, bobcats, and lynx in Colorado—failed to pass. However, it sparked curiosity about these incredible predators and their role in our ecosystem. To help us learn more, I’m speaking with local conservationist, hunter, and mountain lion enthusiast, David Neils.

David’s passion for wildlife began in Montana, where he started studying animals seriously at just six years old. Back then, without trail cameras, he used creative methods like tying dental floss across trails to monitor activity. Fascinated by apex predators, he often dreamed about grizzlies, wolves, and mountain lions.

David’s connection with mountain lions deepened during a memorable encounter in Colorado’s Never Summer Wilderness, where he was nudged awake by a male lion. That moment inspired him to dedicate over 20 years to studying these elusive creatures. Spending time weekly in mountain lion habitats, he developed a system to map their activity across the western United States, Canada, and Chile. His 30,000 hours in the field culminated in the creation of a one-on-one Mountain Lion Workshop for those eager to learn his methods.

What sets David’s work apart is his commitment to capturing completely wild footage—no lures, dogs, or other aids are used.

To explore more of David’s incredible work, visit Wildnaturemedia.com.

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If you enjoyed today’s episode and found it insightful, please share it with your friends and family. A special thank-you to the Loveland Mountain Club for hosting a presentation of David’s work and helping to spread awareness about these incredible apex predators.

Get Involved:

The Cougar Fund

People and Carnivores

Vital Ground

Nature Conservancy

Thumbnail, by David Neils, shows the impact of mountain lions on riparian landscapes.

The music for this podcast is Siesta by Ikson, part of the “Tell Your Story” project—a library of free music for content creators. Visit⁠⁠ ikson.com⁠⁠ to explore the full catalog.