Southern Cal. Wildlife Officials Reverse Policy on Hunting Problematic Mountain Lions that Kill Pets, Livestock
OutdoorHub Reporters 01.04.18
Mountain lions in Southern California that kill pets and livestock will no longer automatically be earmarked for death.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife has decided to reverse a previous policy that allowed ranchers and others to eliminate mountain lions, should they harm any livestock or pets.
Now, anyone who was dealing with a problem cat would have to apply for a depredation permit, and must first attempt nonlethal methods to keep the lion away.
Permits would be issued only if two nonlethal methods were attempted.
The change in policy was greeted with praise from many conservationists, however, owners of livestock weren’t too pleased with the ruling.
“I think they’re bowing to political pressure, and it’s too bad,” said Wendell Phillips, a rancher in Malibu, referring to state wildlife officials. “But the reality is nobody will bother to apply for permits anymore. Shoot, shovel and shut up; that’s what’s coming.”
This policy specifically applies to the Santa Monica and Santa Ana mountain ranges in Southern California.
