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We analyzed surveys from 383 ranchers to determine their perceptions of puma damage in Chubut province (Central Patagonia). Thirty-two percent of respondents had a negative perception, while 65% were neutral. Negative perceptions increased: (a) with the breeding of mixed livestock, (b) with the presence of neighboring inactive, and (c) in small and medium ranches. Our results showed that ranchers use both lethal control and non-lethal methods (regular patrol of the ranch areas, night and seasonal enclosures, guardian dogs) to reduce livestock predation. Lethal control has great acceptance among ranchers, but there is a general lack of evidence about its effectiveness. Considering that our results indicated that the puma may not be the major problem in livestock areas, it is necessary to review the current management policy. We suggest focusing efforts to reduce livestock depredation only on affected ranches, prioritizing the development of non-lethal methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheep depredation by puma (Puma concolor) is a socio-environmental problem that has intensified in recent decades in Patagonia. A bounty system to control this carnivore is implemented in Chubut province (central Patagonia), whereas alternative measures to mitigate the conflict are still in progress. A common recommendation to limit livestock depredation by large carnivores is to maintain suitable levels of wild prey populations. To evaluate the applicability of this recommendation, we examined the puma diet in ranches of the northeastern of Chubut. We analyzed the stomach and intestinal contents of 21 pumas hunted under provincial legislation. The guanaco (Lama guanicoe) represented around 75% of the total biomass consumed. Sheep was the second prey in relevance, but their contribution to the diet was four times lower than the guanaco. Our results emphasize the role of this large native ungulate as main prey and its potential relevance as a buffer against predation on sheep. This study provides information that could be useful for preventive management of livestock predation in Patagonia. • Stomach and intestinal contents of 21 pumas hunted in Chubut province were analyzed. • The main prey consumed by pumas in livestock ranches was the guanaco. • Sheep contribution to diet was four times less than that of the guanaco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]