Fish and Wildlife to Recommend Mountain Lions as Threatened, Will Allow for Removal to Protect Bighorn Sheep
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is recommending that the state grant threatened status for mountain lion populations in the Southern and Central Coast regions of California. Mountain lions in these areas have been under consideration as candidate species since 2020. CDFW estimates show their numbers vary widely, with no clear indication of population change since 2023, despite significant declines in deer populations and other prey.
At the same time, CDFW has authorized limited removal of mountain lions in the Eastern Sierra to support recovery of the Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep. Removals are considered only when relocation efforts are unsuccessful and predation is determined to be a significant threat to bighorn sheep herds.
Staff contact: Steven Fenaroli, sfenaroli@cfbf.com.
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