
Oregon is a large state with very diverse landscapes, habitats, and wildlife, including a large suit of carnivore species. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is required to conserve and manage the state’s wildlife and two carnivore species (cougars and wolves) have recently been hot topics in the news and public discussion. ODFW has a rich history of cougar research and management and a short, but also robust experience with wolves since their return to Oregon. This presentation provides an overview of cougars and wolves in Oregon, including how state laws, management plans, research, and public processes all contribute to the conservation and management of these large carnivores.