LOS ANGELES — The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), in partnership with the National Park Service (NPS) and the Los Angeles Zoo, has intervened on an orphaned mountain lion kitten in Southern California following a coordinated, science-based monitoring effort.
The approximately 22-day-old kitten, identified as P-131, was detected through ongoing tracking of his collared mother (P-129) as part of long-term research led by the National Park Service. Biologists observed a change in the mother’s movement patterns that indicated the den may have been abandoned.
Using GPS collar data, telemetry and remote cameras, wildlife professionals monitored the den site over several days to allow for the possibility of the mother’s return. On day five, CDFW’s Wildlife Health Lab authorized intervention once it became clear the kitten was alone and his condition was declining.
“Decisions like this are based on real-time monitoring, the animal’s condition and whether intervention is likely to make a meaningful difference. In this case, the data showed the kitten would not survive on its own, and intervention was appropriate. Each situation is evaluated individually using science, state law and professional judgment,” said Kyle Evans, CDFW’s Environmental Program Manager in Southern California.
These decisions are made case-by-case and prioritize both animal welfare and the long-term conservation of the species. In this instance, monitoring data allowed biologists to detect a problem early, confirm abandonment and respond at the appropriate time.
P-131 was found malnourished and with a permanent injury to his hind foot due to possible ambilocal strangulation but seems to be in good condition otherwise. He was collected and transported to the Los Angeles Zoo where he is receiving veterinary care and will be transferred to the Oakland Zoo for long-term care once he is stable. Due to his young age and a permanent injury, the kitten is not a candidate for release back into the wild.
Over time, P-131 may serve in an educational capacity to help the public better understand mountain lions, the challenges wildlife face in a human-dominated landscape and human stewardship responsibilities.
Mountain lions are a specially protected species in California and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Management actions are limited and highly specific. CDFW evaluates each situation individually, including cases involving orphaned or injured animals, and only intervenes when conditions indicate the animal cannot survive in the wild or when public safety is at risk.
A Broader Conservation Context
Wildlife outcomes like this one exist along a broader spectrum of management, ranging from no intervention, to conflict prevention to response actions when necessary.
CDFW works with communities across California to reduce human-wildlife conflict through practical measures such as securing attractants, promoting human prevention actions and supporting coexistence strategies.
Not every situation results in intervention, and not every intervention results in placement. This outcome reflects a specific set of circumstances where monitoring, timing and condition aligned to allow for action.
CDFW remains committed to science-based wildlife management that balances public safety, animal welfare and long-term conservation.
For more information on Mountain Lions visit: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Mammals/Mountain-Lion
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Media Contacts:
Cort Klopping, CDFW Communications
Jen Benedet, CDFW Communications