Puma Returns to Patagonia Coast, Preys on Penguins
Creatrip Team
6 months ago
Pumas have returned to the southern Patagonia coast in South America and are again preying on Magellanic penguins. Historically common before European colonization, pumas were largely eliminated during the ranching era to protect cattle and sheep, allowing penguin populations to expand from the 18th century. After an environmental group bought the Monte León ranch in 2004 and the area became Monte León National Park (국립공원), puma numbers recovered and predation on penguins resumed. Penguins, having little experience with such predators, often do not flee when pumas approach. Although penguin numbers have not shown major changes so far, authorities consider the pumas’ return a positive sign for ecosystem health and will continue monitoring penguin populations.
