Mark Elbroch

Mark Elbroch is a wildlife biologist and author specializing in the study of large carnivores, particularly mountain lions and other wild cats of the Americas. He serves as the Puma Program Director for Panthera, a global wild cat conservation organization, and has conducted extensive field research tracking and documenting wild animal behavior. His published works include several respected field guides and tracking manuals, such as "Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species" and "Peterson Reference Guide to the Behavior of North American Mammals." Elbroch's research and writing combine rigorous scientific methodology with detailed field observations, making his work valuable to both researchers and outdoor enthusiasts. Elbroch has received multiple awards for his contributions to wildlife science and conservation, including the Craighead Conservation Award and the Robert Bateman Award for Excellence in Environmental Education. His research has been featured in various scientific journals and media outlets, including National Geographic and the BBC. His current work continues to focus on mountain lion ecology and conservation, conducting long-term studies in Chile and the western United States. Elbroch's research has helped advance understanding of predator-prey relationships and carnivore social behavior.

Readers value Elbroch's scientific expertise and detailed tracking methodology. His field guides and tracking books receive consistent 4.5+ star ratings on Amazon and Goodreads. Readers highlight: - Clear photos and illustrations of animal tracks/signs - In-depth measurement data - Real-world examples from his field work - Accessible writing style for both beginners and experts Common criticisms: - Books can be too technical for casual naturalists - Some guide layouts make quick field reference difficult - Regional focus mainly on North American species Ratings across platforms: Amazon: 4.7/5 average (900+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.5/5 average (500+ reviews) Notable reader comments: "The measurement tables alone are worth the price" - Amazon review "Finally, tracking info backed by actual research" - Goodreads review "Great depth but I needed something more basic" - Goodreads review His "Mammal Tracks & Sign" and "Peterson Field Guide to Animal Tracks" receive the most reader engagement and highest ratings.

Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species (2003) Field guide covering tracks, scats, feeding signs, and other traces left by North American mammals.

Peterson Field Guide to Animal Tracks (2005) Comprehensive guide to identifying tracks and signs of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians in North America.

Bird Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species (2001) Reference guide detailing tracks, droppings, feeding marks, and other signs left by North American bird species.

Behavior of North American Mammals (2009) Examination of behavioral patterns, social structures, and life cycles of mammals found in North America.

Peterson Reference Guide to the Behavior of North American Mammals (2011) Detailed study of mammal behavior including hunting patterns, mating rituals, and territorial habits.

Mountain Lions of the Black Hills (2018) Research-based account of mountain lion ecology and behavior in South Dakota's Black Hills region.

The Cougar Conundrum (2020) Analysis of human-cougar conflicts and conservation challenges in North America.

Mammal Tracks, Scats and Signs: A Guide to North American Species (2019) Updated field guide focused on identifying various types of mammal evidence in the wild.