Research overview: dispersal and habitat corridors for cougars in fragmented landscapes

Juvenile cougar dispersal, the long-distance movements by which young animals find new territories and exchange genes, is sharply constrained in landscapes fragmented by roads and development around southern California cities. This overview synthesises classic and recent telemetry studies of dispersal routes, barrier effects, and the design of habitat corridors and crossing structures intended to keep populations connected. It covers how dispersers use riparian strips, ridgelines and remnant open space, and how minimum habitat-area and corridor-width estimates inform reserve and infrastructure planning. The synthesis links functional connectivity to the genetic-rescue arguments underlying major wildlife-crossing projects in the region.