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Showing posts with label mountain lion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mountain lion. Show all posts

Sunday, January 7, 2024

Number of California Mountain Lions Only 3,200-4,500 by Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates

Photo from Wikipedia

I've written extensively about the dwindling number of mountain lions in California especially in Southern California. Most of the mountain lions who die in Southern California die because of humans. They are mainly killed being hit by cars, poisoned with rat poison or with depredation permits. 

When asked about the number of mountain lions in California the California Department of Fish & Wildlife generally says they have no idea how many exist. They never really tried to find out because they knew their numbers were decreasing rapidly. They allegedly told some the number "could be" about 6,000. 

I had estimated the number was closer to 4,000 in an article I wrote about depredation permits.  I stated "the California Department of Fish & Wildlife gave depredation permits to people in California who killed 1,702 mountain lions from 2001 to 2018" based on the results of State Information Act Requests which I made. Depredation permits are given to people who have had pets or livestock killed by mountain lions. The permits allow them to shoot and kill the mountain lion whom they think killed their animals. Every time pets or livestock are killed it's because they weren't properly protected by their owners.

Today the LA Times had an article about a recent study which is not final or published about the actual number of mountain lions in the state. The study found there could be 3,200-4,500 mountain lions in the state with most in Northern California. My estimate was right in the middle even though Fish & Wildlife told me it was "way too low." I even asked people who were directly involved in this study if they knew how many mountain lions existed. They said they had no idea but my number was too low. I actually have that on video. From the article,

"The total number of mountain lions is estimated to be between 3,200 and 4,500, which is thousands fewer than previously thought. The count was conducted by state and university scientists who used GPS collar data and genetic information from scat samples to model population densities across the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Mojave Desert and Southern California’s patchwork of weedy, fire-stripped wilderness.

“The greatest density is in the coastal forests of Humboldt and Mendocino counties of Northwest California, and lowest is the high desert east of the Sierra Nevada range in Inyo County,” said Justin Dellinger, a large-carnivore biologist and leader of the California Mountain Lion Project effort. “The Central Valley and portions of the Mojave Desert have no mountain lions.”

"The California Department of Fish and Wildlife had for decades estimated that the state’s mountain lion population was roughly 6,000 — even despite relentless vehicle strikes, wildfires and encroachment by land-hungry humans throughout their range.

“That old figure was just a back-of-the-envelope calculation without much data to support it,” Dellinger said. “The new, more accurate information we collected will be used to conserve and manage mountain lions more appropriately.”

In a collaborative effort involving the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, UC Davis, UC Santa Cruz, the nonprofit Institute for Wildlife Studies and the nonprofit Audubon Canyon Ranch, Dellinger and others traipsed through mountain forests, canyons and desert badlands in search of tracks. They also set trail cameras and traps, tranquilized lions, took biological samples and fitted animals with tracking collars.

Dellinger said the group spent roughly $2.45 million in state funds over seven years to produce three population estimates: One suggests there are 4,511 cougars living in California, and the other two suggest the number is roughly 3,200. Deciding which figure is most precise will be challenging for biologists tasked with reviewing the census report."

"There’s an almost 1 in 4 chance that the charismatic cats could be extinct in the Santa Monica and Santa Ana Mountains within 50 years."

Clearly something must be done now or our native mountain lion will become extinct. I'm sure they calculated the birth rate, cub/kitten survival rate to age of maturity/breeding and death rate by various causes including depredation permits to make this estimate. I'd love to see the math but will have to wait until the research is reviewed then published. I will assume it's correct based on my knowledge of the experience and expertise of Dr. T Winston Vickers, UC Davis and the other organizations involved.

As I stated in my previous articles the main things we must do to save native mountain lions in order are the following.

1. Do not give any depredation permits for mountain lions. People must secure their livestock and pets. If a mountain lion doesn't kill and eat the livestock or pet dog, a coyote will. Fish & Wildlife said they don't want to give the permits. Ask the California legislature or the Fish & Game Commission to change the regulations that makes it mandatory for the Department to give depredation permits. They should only give permits if one specific mountain lion is a definite threat to humans based on facts and physical evidence.

2. Stop allowing the use of anticoagulant bait poison outdoors. Non-target wildlife are eating the poison directly or they are being poisoned secondarily by eating animals which ate the poison. Mountain lions will eat slower sick animals more often because they're easier to catch. They primarily eat the organ meat which is where the poison is stored in the liver. Mountain lions eat coyotes, raccoons who are also poisoned secondarily. Mountain lions eat ground squirrels, gophers directly who eat the poison directly. They really need to find a different safer method of controlling ground squirrels, gophers on golf courses, soccer fields and landscape areas. They have to put the poison in bait stations which only allow the target animal. Maybe there can be trap doors in the bait stations that dump the animal in a bucket where it can at least be killed humanely and quickly. Poison is a slow painful death.

3. Allow the maintenance of existing open space. Limit development and plan any development with native wildlife in mind. Don't plan new freeways with blind curves. Research has shown us mountain lions are more likely to be hit by cars on curved roads with limited visibility. If mountain lions must pass through a dangerous area, guide and funnel them to safer areas with hardscape and landscape. They are incorporating some of this in the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing. Development also limits population ranges which isolates mountain lions causing inbreeding and genetic degradation issues.

I'm glad someone finally did a study about the actual number of mountain lions in California. Maybe this will help conserve this important keystone species. We need mountain lions to help control the deer population. If the deer population gets out of control, it can be detrimental to our ecosystem and environment. This is especially so because we killed off all our native wolves over 100 years ago. Only recently have a few migrated from other states into California. Reintroducing wolves in certain areas in some states has restored ecosystems. I hope we don't get to the point where we have to reintroduce mountain lions to California. 

Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


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Monday, September 4, 2023

P-22 Mountain Lion Eating a Dead Deer, GRAPHIC, Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates


Mountain lion P22, P-22, puma, cougar is eating a dead deer in Griffith Park October 2022. This video came from a trail cam, trail camera in Griffith Park around October 28 to October 30, 2022. p22, p-22, mountain lion, cougar, puma, mary cummins, animal advocates, griffith park, los angeles, california, wildlife rescue, wildlife, rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator @animaladvocatesusa @marycummins 

Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


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P22 Mountain Lion eating a dead deer. GRAPHIC, GROSS by Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates


Mountain lion P22 P-22 eating a dead deer as seen on trail cam,trail camera. 

Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


Google+ Mary Cummins, Mary K. Cummins, Mary Katherine Cummins, Mary Cummins-Cobb, Mary, Cummins, Cobb, wildlife, wild, animal, rescue, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator, fish, game, los angeles, california, united states, squirrel, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum, coyote, bobcat, manual, instructor, speaker, humane, nuisance, control, pest, trap, exclude, deter, green, non-profit, nonprofit, non, profit, ill, injured, orphaned, exhibit, exhibitor, usda, united states department of agriculture, hsus, humane society, peta, ndart, humane academy, humane officer, animal legal defense fund, animal cruelty, investigation, peace officer, animal, cruelty, abuse, neglect #marycummins #animaladvocates #losangeles #california #wildlife #wildliferehabilitation #wildliferehabilitator #realestate #realestateappraiser #realestateappraisal #lawsuit

Thursday, August 24, 2023

P22 Necropsy Report Released in State Information Act Request by Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates

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P22 mountain lion necropsy report final and full.This is the result of a state information act I made immediately after P22 was euthanized. There are a lot more documents I'm downloading now so check back. There are also a lot of trail cam and security cam videos. Below is one of P22 washing his face.


Here's another video of P22 with a raccoon. Video is not gross though he probably killed and ate it later.



Here is the blog article from when they first posted a brief summary.


From the report released 08/24/2023 

Necropsy Case Report Report End Date

14/Mar/2023
Copyright, Species360, 2023. All rights reserved.
4004903 | Puma / Puma concolor | TCW22-34902 Individual
Sex: Male Birth Date: 01/Jan/2010 +/- 1 year Age at Submission Date: 12Y,11M,16D +/- 1
Case Info
Case Number
0069554
Necropsy Submission
Death Date Date Submitted Date Discovered Manner of Death Carcass Weight Death Location
17/Dec/2022 17/Dec/2022 - Euthanasia - NC99100 Harter
Enclosure Group
Recent History/Observations
Mountain Lion from the LA area, P-22. Age estimated around 12 years old. Free-ranging but was losing body condition, changing behavior. Immobilized in the field by CDFW and brought to LA Zoo for diagnostics. Then brought to Safari Park for further evaluation. CT and various other diagnostic testing
revealed diaphragmatic hernia with herniated liver parenchyma and omentum. Renal insufficiency also suspected, along with possible myocardial disease.
Diffuse ectoparasitism with Demodex gatoi also identified. Euthanasia was pursued at the decision of CDFW, and was performed with IV pentobarbital.
After euthanasia, testicles were removed for gamete recovery.
Death Numbers
Death Number Effective Date
0069554 17/Dec/2022
Gross Necropsy
Necropsy Date Carcass Condition Necropsy Location
17/Dec/2022 Fresh SANDIEGOZ NECROPSY LAB
Report Date
17/Dec/2022

Sex: Male Birth Date: 01/Jan/2010 +/- 1 year Age at Submission Date: 12Y,11M,16D +/- 1
Printed: 14/Mar/2023 17:05
Species360 ZIMS version 2.25.5
San Diego Zoo Safari Park Page: 2 of 4
Received is a 44 kg, adult male mountain lion (puma) in fresh postmortem and good to fair body condition with mild generalized muscle atrophy and small to
moderate fat stores. There is patchy alopecia and poor hair coat along the ventral neck, face, ears, distal tail (distal 25 cm), and distal limbs and feet. Two
black, hairless, soft, pedunculated skin nodules are present on the dorsal neck which are 2 x 1.3 x 1.2 cm and 1 x 0.9 x 0.4 cm. A 3.6 x 1.7 cm area of
alopecia caudal to the right eye also has 2 scabs. The right eye has patchy hemorrhage in the dorsal sclera and conjunctiva, and areas of redness overlying
the lateral aspect of the iris within the eye. A small scab is present on the skin over the dorsal aspect of the left eye orbit. Along the right ventral mandible is
a 2 x 0.6 cm crusted ulceration with edema and tan discoloration of the underlying subcutis. Areas of alopecia (~5 x 2 cm) are present over both hips, and
there is a 1 x 0.8 cm abrasion along the lateral metatarsal region of the right hindfoot. Multiple claws are frayed. There is a 0.5 cm diameter skin incision
along the left medial aspect of the stifle (antemortem skin biopsy). Within the right frontal sinus is a small amount of brown clotted blood. The zygomatic
process of the right frontal bone surrounding the right ocular orbit has multiple chip fractures with mild associated hemorrhage.
There is mild hemorrhage in the subcutis and muscle along the lateral aspect of the right shoulder and proximal humerus. Some hemorrhage is also present
around the left jugular venipuncture site in the neck. Fractures of the transverse process of the 7th cervical vertebra and acromion process of the right
scapula noted on CT scan are not readily identified grossly. A thin (<1 mm diameter), approximately 2.5 cm long silver metallic wire foreign body is
embedded along the internal aspect of the caudoventral abdominal midline. The reported metallic pellet in the region of the left hip on CT scan is not found.
Negative pressure is absent in the thorax on opening the abdominal cavity. The lungs are diffusely collapsed and pink. The heart is 218.9 g (0.498% of body
weight), and the mitral valve leaflets are mildly thickened and smoothly nodular. There is a 3 x 2.5 cm hole in the right ventral aspect of the diaphragm
through which a portion of omentum (approximately half) is herniated into the right thoracic cavity. The margin of this diaphragmatic tear is smooth and
rounded with no evidence of hemorrhage. An approximately 1 cm diameter dark red nodule also bulges into this tear which is adjacent to a second
approximately 5 cm diameter tear centrally in the diaphragm. This tear also has smooth edges, and through it bulges into the thoracic cavity a roughly 9 cm
diameter x 4 cm thick section of liver which is discolored and mottled shades of tan, orange and red. There are tight adhesions between the left crus of the
diaphragm and the left lateral lobe of the liver. Pleura and connective tissue is tightly adhered to and encapsulates the intrathoracic herniated portion of liver,
which appears to be a portion of the left medial lobe or papillary process of the caudate lobe. The cystic duct of the gallbladder is sigmoid in shape. The liver
is 1.4 kg (3.2% of body weight), subjectively enlarged with rounded lobe margins, and is diffusely dark tan with a moderately enhanced reticular pattern.
A perihepatic lymph node is mildly enlarged at 7 x 1.5 x 0.7 cm, and the mesenteric lymph nodes are similarly prominent. The spleen is diffusely enlarged,
dark red, and congested (presumed euthanasia artifact). The medullae of both kidneys have mild pale tan streaking to the renal crests. Numerous long
cestodes are present throughout the small intestine. In the dorsal peripheral aspect of the left thyroid gland is a soft, brown, 0.9 x 0.8 x 0.7 cystic nodule
filled with brown cloudy fluid.
crown-rump: 110 cm
subcutaneous fat amount: small
pericardial fat amount: small
abdominal fat amount: moderate
digestive system content:
stomach: full of soft digesta containing abundant fur and some fragments of bone and pieces of hay
small intestine: thick pale yellow fluid and small boluses of fur and hay with numerous long (>20 cm) cestodes
cecum: pasty brown feces containing abundant fur
large intestine: formed feces containing abundant fur
lymph nodes examined: mandibular, axillary, tracheobronchial, mesenteric, perihepatic/peripancreatic
joints examined: atlanto-occipital, right shoulder, left hip, left and right stifles
Preliminary dx:
1. Euthanasia
2. Right eye: mild intra- and peri-ocular hemorrhage
3. Bone, zygomatic process of right frontal bone: multiple chip fractures
4. Right frontal sinus: mild hemorrhage
5. Subcutis and muscle, right shoulder: mild hemorrhage
6. Liver, diaphragm and thoracic cavity: chronic diaphragmatic tears (2) with intrathoracic liver and omentum herniation and entrapment
7. Liver: enhanced reticular pattern
8. Skin, multiple sites (head, neck, distal limbs, distal tail): patchy alopecia and poor hair coat with multiple abrasions, crusts and ulcerations (left and right
orbits, right ventral mandible, right foot)
9. Skin, dorsal neck: pigmented skin tags (2)
10. Kidneys: mild medullary streaking
11. Small intestine: cestodiasis, moderate
12. Left thyroid gland: focal cyst
13. Abdominal body wall: foreign body (metallic wire)
14. Good to fair body condition

Histopathology
Histopathology Report
Histologic dx:
1. Bone, right orbit (zygomatic process of frontal bone): subacute to chronic comminuted fracture with hemorrhage, necrosis, and fibrosis
2. Skin, whole body: 1) mild to moderate epidermal hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis with mild multifocal lymphocytic mural folliculitis and perifollicular
dermatitis, follicular atrophy and loss, and myriad intrafollicular mites (demodicosis, Demodex sp.) and dermatophyte hyphae and spores (dermatophytosis);
2) minimal multifocal granulomatous dermatitis with intralesional fungal elements (pseudomycetoma)
3. Skin and subcutis, right mandible: focally extensive, chronic, ulceration and draining tract with granulation tissue, pyogranulomatous dermatitis and
panniculitis, furunculosis, and intralesional hair shafts
4. Skin, dorsal neck: polyp with multiple cystic follicles
5. Stomach, pylorus: moderate, subacute, regional, neutrophilic and lymphohistiocytic gastritis with glandular microabscesses and intraglandular spiral
bacteria (consistent with Helicobacter sp.)
6. Liver, herniated region: chronic passive congestion with centrilobular atrophy, perivenous and portal fibrosis, focally extensive lipidosis, and capsular
mesothelial hypertrophy
7. Liver: acute diffuse centrilobular congestion, lipogranulomas, and mild Ito cell hyperplasia
8. Pulmonary vein, lung: subacute luminal thrombus
9. Heart, left atrioventricular valve: mild myxomatous degeneration (endocardiosis)
10. Arteries and arterioles, heart and kidney: mild multifocal arteriosclerosis and arteriolosclerosis with medial hypertrophy, subintimal fibrosis and
amphophilic hyaline material deposition
11. Kidney: mild multifocal proliferative glomerulonephritis with glomerulosclerosis, periglomerular fibrosis, hypertrophy of Bowman's capsule epithelium,
and minimal multifocal lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis
12. Lung: mild multifocal alveolar histiocytosis
13. Peripheral blood, whole body: circulating neutrophilia
14. Bone marrow: mild myeloid hyperplasia
15. Tonsil and lymph node (left axillary): minimal multifocal granulomatous tonsillitis and lymphadenitis with intralesional fungal elements
16. Lymph node, mesenteric: minimal to mild multifocal pyogranulomatous lymphadenitis
17. Small intestine: luminal cestodes, numerous
ADDENDUM DATED 2023/01/19:
Ancillary test and results:
CAHFS Accession #D2217781 Toxicology results: FINAL
Dx:
Exposure to multiple anticoagulant rodenticides
Exposure to bromethalin
Anticoagulants Screen - Quantitated, Liver
Analyte Result (ppb) Rep. Limit (ppb)
Brodifacoum, 96, 50
Bromadiolone, 530, 50
Chlorophacinone, 87, 50
Coumachlor, Not Detected, 20
Difethialone, 220, 50
Diphacinone, 960, 50
Warfarin, Not Detected, 20
Difenacoum, Not Detected, 20
Bromethalin, Adipose Tissue
Analyte Result (ppb) Rep. Limit (ppb)
Desmethylbromethalin, Trace, 1.0

Final Summary
Final Summary
The many lesions identified in this wild mountain lion on postmortem examination are consistent with the extensive clinical work up, history of recent and
previous trauma, and reported deteriorating condition. Supporting the diagnosis of recent trauma (hit by car 6 days prior to euthanasia) was the histologic
appearance of the right orbital fracture and gross evidence of hemorrhage in the adjacent frontal sinus and right eye. The suspected intraocular hemorrhage
was not present in the examined histologic section of this eye, however, which appeared within normal limits. An inflamed tract/wound along the right
mandible could also have been related to this traumatic event, though it could also have been more chronic. The diaphragmatic tears, through which
omentum and a portion of liver were herniated into the thoracic cavity, appeared to be of much longer duration with smooth margins, mature fibrous
adhesions, and chronic changes in the affected liver lobe. These were presumably the result of previous trauma, the exact timing of which cannot be
determined from the gross or histologic appearance. Although there was evidence of a degree of chronic vascular compromise to the herniated lobe, the
remaining majority of the liver was unaffected and relatively normal histologically.
A presumed major contributor to the deteriorating condition was skin disease. Heavy colonization of hair follicles with dermatophytes and Demodex sp.
mites was seen in all examined sections of skin (face, neck, hip, foot). These combined infections account for the poor condition of the hair coat and
probably some of the systemic inflammatory response evident in the bloodwork and histologically as myeloid hyperplasia and circulating neutrophilia. The
intrafollicular location of the Demodex mites is more consistent with D. cati or the third feline Demodex sp. as opposed to D. gatoi, which colonizes the
stratum corneum. Generalized D. cati infections suggest underlying immunosuppression or other disease. A Microsporum canis species was identified from
antemortem hair samples and is consistent with the fungal/dermatophyte lesions seen, which included both extensive hair colonization and rare microscopic
pseudomycetomas in skin, tonsil, and axillary lymph node. The latter finding is interesting evidence of lymphatic spread of the M. canis infection beyond the
skin, although the lesions were few and small.
Consistent with the advancing age of this animal, there were a variety of relatively mild, non-specific, age-related changes, including valvular endocardiosis,
arteriosclerosis, and renal disease. The renal changes seen primarily involved glomeruli and could be related to chronic inflammation (such as from the skin
disease) or cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension. Glomerular injury accounts for the reported proteinuria. Findings of undetermined cause and
significance included regional gastritis and a small pulmonary venous thrombus. The gastric inflammation involved the pylorus (or possibly the cardia) and
was neutrophilic and damaging to the glands, some of which contained Helicobacter-type spiral bacteria. No other parasites were seen in the stomach. A
specific cause was therefore not identified, but recent stress and Helicobacter could have been involved. In the small intestine, moderate numbers of
cestodes were probably incidental.
Toxicologic analysis of a liver sample for rodenticides (performed by CAHFS) found 5 anticoagulant rodenticides at varying concentrations as well as a trace
amount of bromethalin. Despite exposure to multiple compounds, two at relatively high levels (diphacinone and bromadiolone), there was no evidence of
abnormal hemorrhage that would suggest a coagulopathy due to toxicosis. Bromethalin does not typically result in histologic lesions, but no clinical
(neurologic) signs of bromethalin toxicosis were reported antemortem.


Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


Google+ Mary Cummins, Mary K. Cummins, Mary Katherine Cummins, Mary Cummins-Cobb, Mary, Cummins, Cobb, wildlife, wild, animal, rescue, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator, fish, game, los angeles, california, united states, squirrel, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum, coyote, bobcat, manual, instructor, speaker, humane, nuisance, control, pest, trap, exclude, deter, green, non-profit, nonprofit, non, profit, ill, injured, orphaned, exhibit, exhibitor, usda, united states department of agriculture, hsus, humane society, peta, ndart, humane academy, humane officer, animal legal defense fund, animal cruelty, investigation, peace officer, animal, cruelty, abuse, neglect #marycummins #animaladvocates #losangeles #california #wildlife #wildliferehabilitation #wildliferehabilitator #realestate #realestateappraiser #realestateappraisal #lawsuit

Sunday, June 25, 2023

Op-Ed: Mountain Lion P-22 Killed by Poison by Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates in Los Angeles California

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Mountain Lion P22 Killed by Poison, p22, p-22, puma,mountain lion,cougar,mary cummins,animal advocates, animaladvocates.us, marycummins.com, wildlife rehabilitation, los angeles, caliornia, fish, game, poison, anticoagulant, griffith park

Los Angeles' most famous mountain lion P-22 was euthanized by the California Department of Fish & Wildlife December 17, 2022 due to fatal injury and illness. The necropsy report (https://wildlife.ca.gov/News/final-necropsy-results-released-for-mountain-lion-p-22) was released June 14, 2023. It showed his death was caused by exposure to anticoagulant poison and traumatic injury.

The report stated he suffered "recent trauma to his head and right eye, including an orbital fracture." He  had "older, significant trauma, including a diaphragmatic rupture, through which the liver and sections of connective tissue from the abdomen had herniated and were inside his chest cavity." The injuries were most likely from a car strike.

He was "underweight, arthritic and had progressive and incurable kidney disease." He had "a severe parasitic skin infection over his entire body, caused by demodectic mange and a fungus, specifically ringworm." Toxicology "revealed exposure to five anticoagulant rodenticides compounds."

Research has shown that long term exposure to anticoagulant poison causes the immune system to be suppressed. The body is no longer able to fight off common parasitic infections such as mites and ringworm. The poison also causes anticoagulant-related nephropathy and results in bleeding in the kidneys which causes kidney failure. Over time the animal becomes weak, dehydrated and unable to easily procure prey animals. This causes the animals to more easily be hit by cars. Poison ultimately killed P-22.

All of the bobcats, foxes, coyotes that we've taken into our wildlife rehabilitation facility over the last 20 years that were hit by cars had major mange mite infestations. They were thin, weak, dehydrated and had poor coat condition just like P22. This was caused by the animals eating poisoned animals. Poisoned animals are easier to catch than healthy ones. People use anticoagulant poison to kill ground squirrels, gophers and rats around homes, golf courses and parks. You can clearly see the poison bait stations scattered all around Griffith Park where P-22 lived. We've taken in many poisoned animals from this park.

The main causes of mountain lion deaths are depredation permits, poison and auto collisions. A depredation permit is a permit to kill a specific mountain lion after they have injured or killed someone's pet or farm animal. The owner of the dead animal requests the permit and a hunter shoots it dead. Some estimate there were or are about 4,000 mountain lions in California. From 2001 to 2018 1,400 were killed by depredation permits per Fish & Wildlife.

The other main cause of death is poison. 96% of mountain lions that have been tested have been exposed to anticoagulant poison per Fish & Wildlife. They are poisoned for their entire lives if they live near human development. This causes kidney failure besides many other health issues similar to what P22 suffered. Poisoned animals are more likely to be hit by cars.

Fish & Wildlife has tried to limit the poisoning but failed because pesticides are not under their jurisdiction. Depredation permits are under their jurisdiction. We need state politicians to step up and call for an emergency injunction to all depredation permits. There also must be tougher restrictions on the use of anticoagulant poison outdoors where non-target wildlife can be poisoned. I've witnessed coyotes sitting right outside poison stations in Griffith Park waiting for the animals to exit so they can eat them.

While wildlife crossings will help some wildlife it may cause others to encroach deeper into developed parts of the city increasing their risk of being killed by depredation permits, poisoning and car strikes. One can only hope our local mountain lions use them to exit the city instead of entering. We owe it to P22 and all of Los Angeles' wildlife to do better. For years people have complained about poison and depredation permits yet nothing has changed. Maybe P22's cruel and agonizing death will be the impetus Los Angeles needs to finally change things.

Mary Cummins
President

#P22 #mountainlion #puma #marycummins #losangeles #california #griffithpark #cougar #poison #rodenticides #rodenticide #anticoagulantes #anticoagulant #ratpoison 

Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


Google+ Mary Cummins, Mary K. Cummins, Mary Katherine Cummins, Mary Cummins-Cobb, Mary, Cummins, Cobb, wildlife, wild, animal, rescue, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator, fish, game, los angeles, california, united states, squirrel, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum, coyote, bobcat, manual, instructor, speaker, humane, nuisance, control, pest, trap, exclude, deter, green, non-profit, nonprofit, non, profit, ill, injured, orphaned, exhibit, exhibitor, usda, united states department of agriculture, hsus, humane society, peta, ndart, humane academy, humane officer, animal legal defense fund, animal cruelty, investigation, peace officer, animal, cruelty, abuse, neglect #marycummins #animaladvocates #losangeles #california #wildlife #wildliferehabilitation #wildliferehabilitator #realestate #realestateappraiser #realestateappraisal #lawsuit

Saturday, February 4, 2023

P-22 Celebration of Life Event at Greek Theater, Hollywood, California, Animal Advocates, Mary Cummins

mary cummins, animal advocates, celebration of life, p22, p-22, mountain lion, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, greek theater, griffith park, death, eulogy, legacy, funeral, rodenticide, car, euthanasia
mary cummins, animal advocates, celebration of life, p22, p-22, mountain lion, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, greek theater, griffith park, death, eulogy, legacy, funeral, rodenticide, car, euthanasia
Today February 4, 2022 was the P-22 Celebration of Life event at the Greek Theater in Griffith Park, Hollywood, California. The sponsor was the National Wildlife Federation. Animal Advocates was there along with congressmen Ted Lieu, Adam Schiff, Diplo, The Tokens playing "The Lion Sleeps Tonight," Wallis Annenberg representative, Charlton Chuck Bonham of the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, Seth Riley, Jeff Sikich and David Szymanski of the National Park Service, Beth Pratt, Griff Griffith, National Geographic photographer Steve Winter, Warren Dixon of 3rd Rock Hip Hop, Francis Appiah drummer Caltrans singer, Alan Salazar tribal elder, Steven Garcia Tongva Indian, Tina Calderon, Rainn Wilson Actor, Friends of Griffith Park, Miguel Ordenana of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, Tony Lee filmmaker, Lana Duffy, Laura Friedman, Gavin Newsom via video, Alex Padilla via video, Senator Anthony Portantino, Actor Julia Butters, Wade Crowfoot, Jeremy Guff and many more whom I'll list below.

It was a beautiful 70 degree sunny day. The event did not appear to be sold out as the rear and side sections were empty. The front section was reserved for VIPs and friends of NWF but the rest was general seating. The event ran 1.5 hours long ending at 3:30 pm instead of 2:00 pm. People started leaving around 2 and 2:30 pm.

Beth Pratt of the National wildlife Federation read the eulogy which was in the LA Times. Senator Anthony Portantino presented a California Senate Declaration. Congressman Adam Schiff talked about the new P22 stamp and pro wildlife legislation. Congressman Ted Lieu talked about what P22 meant to California. Actor Julia Butters read a letter she wrote when she was eight about P22 trying to help him. Rainn Wilson Actor sang a song he wrote about P22. The Tokens relatives sang two songs including "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." Governor Gavin Newsom appeared via video as did Senator Alex Padilla. 

I posted photos below and will add the video tomorrow. There are videos on our Facebook page here http://www.facebook.com/AnimalAdvocatesUSA Here is the full video of the event.
https://savelacougars.org/p-22-celebration-of-life #p22forever #p22legacy #savelacougars

mary cummins, animal advocates, celebration of life, p22, p-22, mountain lion, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, greek theater, griffith park, death, eulogy, legacy, funeral, rodenticide, car, euthanasia

mary cummins, animal advocates, celebration of life, p22, p-22, mountain lion, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, greek theater, griffith park, death, eulogy, legacy, funeral, rodenticide, car, euthanasia











Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


Google+ Mary Cummins, Mary K. Cummins, Mary Katherine Cummins, Mary Cummins-Cobb, Mary, Cummins, Cobb, wildlife, wild, animal, rescue, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator, fish, game, los angeles, california, united states, squirrel, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum, coyote, bobcat, manual, instructor, speaker, humane, nuisance, control, pest, trap, exclude, deter, green, non-profit, nonprofit, non, profit, ill, injured, orphaned, exhibit, exhibitor, usda, united states department of agriculture, hsus, humane society, peta, ndart, humane academy, humane officer, animal legal defense fund, animal cruelty, investigation, peace officer, animal, cruelty, abuse, neglect #marycummins #animaladvocates #losangeles #california #wildlife #wildliferehabilitation #wildliferehabilitator #realestate #realestateappraiser #realestateappraisal #lawsuit

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

P22 Mountain Lion Exhibit at Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County by Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates

mary cummins, animal advocates, natural history museum, los angeles, california, p22,p-22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, wildlife, dead, exhibit, most famous feline
mary cummins, animal advocates, natural history museum, los angeles, california, p22,p-22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, wildlife, dead, exhibit, most famous feline


Some photos from the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County The Story of P-22, L.A.'s Most Famous Feline exhibit. Museum has free hours and days. Visited today and left a note for P22. 








mary cummins, animal advocates, natural history museum, los angeles, california, p22,p-22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, wildlife, dead, exhibit, most famous feline
mary cummins, animal advocates, natural history museum, los angeles, california, p22,p-22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, wildlife, dead, exhibit, most famous feline


mary cummins, animal advocates, natural history museum, los angeles, california, p22,p-22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, wildlife, dead, exhibit, most famous feline
mary cummins, animal advocates, natural history museum, los angeles, california, p22,p-22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, wildlife, dead, exhibit, most famous feline











Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


Google+ Mary Cummins, Mary K. Cummins, Mary Katherine Cummins, Mary Cummins-Cobb, Mary, Cummins, Cobb, wildlife, wild, animal, rescue, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator, fish, game, los angeles, california, united states, squirrel, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum, coyote, bobcat, manual, instructor, speaker, humane, nuisance, control, pest, trap, exclude, deter, green, non-profit, nonprofit, non, profit, ill, injured, orphaned, exhibit, exhibitor, usda, united states department of agriculture, hsus, humane society, peta, ndart, humane academy, humane officer, animal legal defense fund, animal cruelty, investigation, peace officer, animal, cruelty, abuse, neglect #marycummins #animaladvocates #losangeles #california #wildlife #wildliferehabilitation #wildliferehabilitator #realestate #realestateappraiser #realestateappraisal #lawsuit

Thursday, December 8, 2022

P-22 Mountain Lion Will be Trapped and Assessed for Health, Behavior by Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates

P-22 mountain lion , Copyright Steve Winter photographer, fair use of copyright for non commercial education. Animal Advocates,Mary Cummins, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, griffith park

UPDATE: 03/06/23 P22 was buried in the Santa Monica mountains where he was born and raised. National Parks Service, California Department of Fish & Wildlife and local indigenous tribes were present for his burial. May he finally rest in peace. https://abc7.com/p-22-buried-santa-monica-mountains-mountain-lion/12920690

12/30/22 I've done more research into anticoagulant bait and wildlife organ failure. It's most likely a large part of the organ failure experienced by P22 was the result of chronic anticoagulant poison exposure. Even if the poison doesn't kill them directly, it kills them slowly indirectly. From Raptors Are The Solution https://www.raptorsarethesolution.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/RATS-fact-sheet-on-sublethal-impacts.pdf 100% of all mountain lions in the main collared mountain lion study had at least one type of poison in their system. https://whc.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/programs-projects/ca-conservation/mountain-lion-project  

P22's death makes one rethink the collared mountain lion study and wildlife crossings. So far the only thing the tracking study has shown us is that we're killing wildlife with our development, poison, cars and depredation permits. Maybe it'd be better if they died off from lack of genetic diversity in wild open spaces instead of luring them into the city to die by poison, cars, depredation permits... Wildlife crossings will only bring them, lure them in closer temporal and spatial proximity to their death and it won't be an easy or painless death. They'll be poisoned their entire life. I was accidentally poisoned by the same poison. It's painful. You feel sick all the time and are exhausted. We clearly will never stop using poison, driving cars, developing the land or shooting and killing mountain lions for eating a hobby farm chicken, goat or pet dog. 

12/22/22 Update about P22's remains returning to Los Angeles. They were going to go to the History Museum but now that's on pause while they consult with Native American tribes. FTR they were NEVER going to stuff, mount and display him. The remains are at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles county but they aren't doing anything but holding him.

"Miguel Ordeñana (wildlife biologist who first discovered P22 for the History Museum)
  · 
I would like to provide an update about the status of our beloved P22, in addition to some background in hopes to offer some clarity and accountability during this very difficult time. I first want to apologize that local Tribal communities, as well as other communities in L.A., were not proactively included in the permit application to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) to receive P-22’s remains, or contacted once the permit was secured. While the intent was to ensure that his remains would not be discarded, I realize the process was not clear or inclusive. The intention has always been to help preserve his cultural and conservation legacy, and gather input from communities for next steps once he was in LA, but I own my impact and am committed to learn from this. Conversations are currently happening with Chumash and Tongva tribal communities about what the next steps will be.

P-22's remains are currently with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where he was treated and compassionately euthanized. CDFW and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park veterinarians and staff performed a necropsy following his death to learn more about his condition as part of standard procedure. Resultant information can help conservation of imperiled mountain lion populations. His death and necropsy are painful to think about for myself and many people, especially for those who view him as a close friend or family member. Even as a scientist who appreciates the conservation value of these procedures, I have had a hard time processing it.

The CDFW has learned of the wishes some tribal members have to not use P-22’s remains for research. As a result, CDFW put a pause on releasing him to us or anyone while they reevaluate next steps.
NHM has offered to bring his remains back to LA so that he is kept safely until plans for next steps are finalized. We are talking with Tongva and Chumash tribal communities to determine immediate and next steps regarding the care and treatment of his remains. We would be honored and humbled with the opportunity to hold P-22’s remains during this process.

Thank you for your thoughts and efforts in making sure our goal of honoring his cultural and conservation legacy is done well for everyone who cares so deeply about P-22 and the future of mountain lions in Greater Los Angeles. I hope to be able to provide more concrete details soon."

From Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. 
  · 
"We are grateful for the tremendous amount of love and support for P-22 and want to acknowledge how deeply many people are feeling his loss. 
The Natural History Museum’s connection with P-22 began when one of our scientists saw his image on a trail camera that was set up to study wildlife. His time living in Griffith Park was incredibly meaningful because his story further connected L.A. with urban nature and inspired our community to take action for wildlife conservation. His death has affected all of us and we recognize and honor that people are impacted in different ways. 
This has been a particularly emotional and difficult time for our team members who have devoted the last decade to understanding and learning from P-22. Right now, we are in dialogue with Native communities, including multiple Chumash and Tongva Tribes, to help navigate this unprecedented situation. We want to ensure that multiple voices are heard around the respectful consideration of his remains, which includes the clear confirmation that the museum will NOT taxidermy or display his remains. 
We are committed to sharing his story and honoring his legacy and impact on our communities."

12/19/22 People have been asking me about my opinion of P22's euthanasia. I'll reply here.

When I first heard he'd attacked and killed a chihuahua being walked on a leash November 9, 2022 I suspected something was wrong. That is not normal behavior for P22 or any mountain lion. I spoke with big cat specialists. We thought he's probably suffering from rat poison again and maybe someone is feeding him or encouraging him to come closer to humans and pets. I thought maybe he could use some Vitamin K (antidote for poison) and hazing if he could be found.

December 8, 2022 P22 attacked another small dog then later approached a man with a large dog on video. That's when I knew something was very wrong and steps needed to be taken. I assumed he was maybe weak and suffering from the effects of anticoagulant rat poison again. By this time Fish & Wildlife had decided to tranquilize and capture P22 for assessment. Seth Riley and Jeff Sikich assisted because they had collared and been monitoring him for years. We later learned that P22 was probably hit by a car around this time. 

December 12, 2022 they tranq'd and captured P22 10:00 am or so close to the site of the car accident which was Dec 11, 2022 at 8:00 pm. Sarah Picchi stated they captured him at her home. She lives at 2319 St George St, Los Angeles, CA 90027 but the video showed 232* St George which may be an ADU behind the main house. The car accident was at about 4161 Los Feliz at Rowena map here about 2,600 sf away as the crow flies. 

Their initial observation was he looked okay though was missing some fur on his face. They took him in for assessment. At this point we're told P22 actually injured a woman while she protected her dog. She needed 30 stitches. If this were any mountain lion except P22, he would have been euthanized right then and there for this reason. Because he was a Hollywood celebrity the Department would not do that. They don't like being attacked. They've been attacked for many similar decisions in the past which is why they try to relocate or send to sanctuary. Oddly enough it's not legal to relocate healthy nuisance wildlife per Fish & Wildlife's own regulations yet they do it just so they won't be vilified, attacked and protested.

December 14, 2022 after the initial assessment they said he's not healthy enough to be released back to the wild. This is when talk of sanctuary or euthanasia started. As a Fish & Wildlife wildlife rehabilitator we are told the only options for unreleasable wildlife is euthanasia or education in a qualified sanctuary. They will only allow perfect looking specimens for education. At this point I thought the Department was inclined to euthanize based on their emphasis on "quality of life," "he's an old lion,"... At this point I was very skeptical of their assessment. 

December 17 they euthanized P22. This also happened to be my birthday so I'll definitely never forget the day of his death :-( At this point they stated he had chronic kidney, liver, heart disease, missing fur from mite induced mange, eye injury from a car collision and a "hernia." Most older animals will have "chronic" kidney, liver, heart disease. "Chronic" means "persisting over a long time." Our organs are never in peak condition as we age. I thought an eye injury is easily recoverable. I assumed the "hernia" was a genetic condition and probably an inguinal hernia in the lower abdomen. 

I assume all predators in Griffith Park have exposure to rat poison. Griffith Park poisons ground squirrels and gophers in the park and golf courses. So do the surrounding residences. We have treated MANY MANY MANY mammals suffering the effects of rat poison in Griffith Park. We have lobbied for the end of anticoagulant poison for years. I've written a ton of articles about this here. I almost died from accidentally exposure in 2003 while helping Fish & Wildlife cleanup dead poisoned ground squirrels and other animals in San Buenaventura. 

When an animal such as a coyote, bobcat or mountain lion eats an animal who ate rat poison, it suffers the same effects. They bleed to death internally and become infested with mites scratching off their skin leaving infected sores. We've taken in wildlife with mange in the park and all over Los Angeles for years. It causes their immune system to become depressed. This gives the naturally occurring parasites the ability to take over. This is why so many coyotes you see are missing fur. They end up scratching themselves causing wounds and infections. This causes their health to deteriorate. 

The poison also negatively affects the liver, kidneys and heart. The poison CAUSES liver, kidney and heart failure. When this happens wildlife becomes weak and searches for easy meals such as pets. This brings them closer to humans and cars. This is when they are most likely to be hit by a car. And it's not always a "reckless, speeding driver" that kills them. Wildlife don't follow the "look left, look right, look left again then cross the road" rule. They just cross the road. If you've ever almost run into a deer running across the road at night, you'll understand. If there are blind curves in the area such as where P22 lived, the chances of being hit are much higher.

Below is a before and after photo of P22 in 2014 from National Park Service when he was trapped to treat him for exposure to rodenticide. He'd lost 20% of his body weight at that time. He was treated with Vitamin K which is the antidote. They knew he'd be re-exposed when released.




This brings us back to P22's last diagnosis of a hernia. He did not have a regular hernia. He had a diaphragmatic hernia though they didn't state this specifically. A diaphragmatic hernia occurs in animals when they suffer blunt force trauma usually in a car accident. The force of the car hitting the animal forces the organs to burst through the diaphragm ending up in the cavity of the heart and lungs.  Generally the organs are damaged by the force of the impact and going through the diaphragm. It makes it more difficult for the lungs and heart to function. There is also damage to the point of impact which appears to be P22's right eye, head and side of the body. There was also evidence of skull fractures. 

The hernia diagnosis and the below CT scan changed everything for me. If this diagnosis and scan were legit, P22 had no real chance of survival based on his underlying condition, age and other issues. If he were a young healthy animal and his organs weren't damaged in the collision, he could have had surgery to repair the herniation. Dogs hit by car have had this surgery. Alas, that was not the case. He probably would have died within a week in the area where he was found if they didn't capture him. 

The most important take away from P22's death is that we humans caused all of his problems and his death. Our development caused him to be locked in by freeways in the park. Our poisons most likely caused his heart, liver and kidney failure. The poisons caused mites to take over his skin causing hair loss and skin issues. These things caused him to become ill and search for easier food to catch and eat. This put him in dangerous proximity to a vehicle which struck and ultimately would have killed him. We find bobcats, coyotes in this same condition after car strikes. 

We must learn from P22's death. We must be better guardians of our world and it's inhabitants. We must stop using anticoagulant poison. We must make sure development doesn't fracture and lock wildlife in or out of their territory. We must have safe wildlife crossings under, over or around major freeways. Most importantly we must care about the well being of others on this earth. We share this earth with other beings and need to start caring or they will all be gone eventually.

12/18/2022 Video of final Fish & Wildlife meeting about P22. Speakers: Director of Fish & Wildlife Chuck Bonham, Veterinarian Deanna Clifford, Dr Hendrick Nolan, San Diego Zoo, Dr Ed Hurt, Fish & Wildlife, Seth Riley, NPS. People were given ten minutes notice about the meeting. 

Chuck Bonham: (crying) P22 had a number of severe injuries and health problems. Dept approved to compassionately euthanize P22. I've felt entire weight of city of LA on my shoulders.We were making plans to place him in a sanctuary. Over this week we got more and more information. We relied on six vets at SD Zoo and four other specialty vets. Jeff Sikich on vacation. We spoke with elected officials. We put P22 in this environment. We can fix this so they can have freedom to roam.

Dr Deanna Clifford: (crying) We saw some trail cam images where he looked thin and coat was thin. Dec 12 we had reports of lion struck by vehicle. Sikich was able to locate by signal on collar. located near where hit by car. He was captured and we contacted LA Zoo. LA Zoo stabilized and we sent to SD Zoo for their CT scan on Monday. 

Dr. Hendrick Nollens: SD Zoo. We stabilized him to put under anesthesia and did full exam. We saw acute injuries from vehicle strike, fractured skull bone, right eye injury, skin injury, herniation of abdominal organs into chest (my comment:diaphragmatic hernia) . Here are some images.Herniation caused by impact from vehicle strike. This reduces lung volume, breathing.He had preexisting conditions, weight loss, stage 2 kidney failure, advanced liver disease, heart disease, failure, had mites. 


p22, Animal Advocates,Mary Cummins, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, griffith park
P22, Animal Advocates,Mary Cummins, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, griffith park

I put the photos side by side.

P22, Animal Advocates,Mary Cummins, cougar, puma, los angeles, california, griffith park
, ct scan, xray, hernia, organs, lungs, heart, diaphragm, liver, kidney, mountain lion



Seth Riley: (crying) P22 has an extraordinary legacy.

Chuck Bonham: (crying)I know my decision is causing a lot of pain right now. I'm really sorry for the pain. I hope people can find hope. I felt the weight of the city on my shoulders this week. We must do better for these animals. 6:45-13:06 then 33:08-34:30.

Chuck Bonham, Director California Department of Fish & Wildlife


Questions:

(Not a speaker) Beth Pratt: (wanted to ask a question and was on mute but found a way to unmute herself. People wanting to ask questions were supposed to do so via writing in chat only). Let's make it right so it doesn't happen again. 

Dr D Clifford: Clotting times were normal, not clinically ill from rodenticide toxicity at that time. Post mortem tests more reliable.

P22 went to sleep at 9:00 am.

His body will be used for science. He will come back to LA and the LA History museum. 


12/17/2022 As we sadly predicted P22 has been euthanized :-( He had injuries and illness. He was euthanized this morning at the San Diego Zoo. 

"The trauma to his internal organs would require invasive surgical repair," officials said.

Wildlife officials said P-22 also had several pre-existing illnesses, including irreversible kidney disease, chronic weight loss, extensive parasitic skin infection over his entire body and localized arthritis.

"P-22's advanced age, combined with chronic, debilitating, life-shortening conditions and the clear need for extensive long-term veterinary intervention left P-22 with no hope for a positive outcome," officials said. 


12/15/2022 Seems when P22 attacked another dog December 8 he ended up injuring a woman who got 30 stitches. Below are the reports. Fish & Wildlife can't release "nuisance" wildlife legally. The main reason is legal liability. If they know an animal is causing personal injury or damage, they could be legally liable. Hopefully P22 can go to a sanctuary and happily live out his life. Still waiting for medical and behavior assessment results.






12/14/2022 Wildlife officials have stated that P22 will not be released back to the wild.Nuisance wildlife cannot legally be released back to the wild. He will either go to sanctuary or be euthanized if his condition is fatal.

Official update from Fish & Wildlife 30 minute Zoom video.


Worst moderator ever! She gave questions to the speakers which were previously answered. The moderator's job is to weed out repeat questions. Jordan Traverso jordan.traverso@ca.wildlife.gov Ashton Hooker is another media contact ashton_hooker@nps.gov

Ed Pert, Regional Manager, Fish Wildlife CDFW: Concerning behavior near humans and dogs on leash with people. One human was injured. He's recently been in Los Feliz, Silver Lake urban areas instead of deeper in the park. 

Deana Clifford DFW Veterinarian Biologist: Results of initial health examination. Underweight, thin fur coat consistent with anticoagulant bait poisoning, right eye injury consistent with hit by car. Gave fluids, anti-inflams, antibiotic, antiparasitic. Waiting for some lab results.

Jeff Sikich, NPS:  Seth Riley, NPS: History of P22.

Ed Pert: Outcome won't be released back into wild in his current condition. Trying to leave everything on the table. Will try to find good sanctuary. Wild adult male mountain lions don't do well in captivity.Will have to evaluate. If health assessment very poor, will consider euthanasia.

Deana Clifford: Follow up exam is next with CT scan for eye injury. Planned later this week. May take few weeks to fully understand all issues. Multiple labs pending 2-5 days. We're also monitoring his behavior. P22 is older especially for male in the wild. He's 12 years old.

Seth Riley: First time where we captured an animal and brought in for health assessment. We have treated some lions for mange in the past in the field, including P22. 

Deana Clifford: Kidney failure, cancer, more significant trauma, head trauma would cause us to euthanize him. That's why we're doing a CT scan. Old cats get old cat diseases. 

Ed Pert: A team of people will help us make the final decision, NPS, F&W, Director, Veterinarians, maybe outside people. Someone reported mountain lion hit by car at Los Feliz Blvd and Rowena car accident with mountain lion. P22 was very close to that area at the time but not positive it was him.(there are no other big cats in that area!)

Deana Clifford: Don't want to release where P22 is located today because don't want to be distracted. 

Seth Riley: P22 didn't run when we darted him. He stayed in the same place. 


12/13/2022 So far we know he has mange which is common for predator mammals in this area.They use a lot of rodenticide to kill gophers and ground squirrels in Griffith Park. It works its way up the food chain. 




12/12/2022 P22 has been tranquilized and captured. He will undergo a health and behavioral evaluation. So far he looks okay.


P22 captured in a Los Feliz backyard.


ORIGINAL: We were actually just talking with mountain lion experts about P-22's behavior after he killed the chihuahua. We were talking about trying to find out why he would attack a tiny dog. Is he hungry, sick, injured, have people been feeding him, should he be hazed? Wildlife Officials have decided to trap and assess P22. We will keep you updated on the status. 

If he is dying, they will euthanize him. Because he attacked a chihuahua near humans, he can't legally be released. It's illegal to released nuisance wildlife. If he's just getting older, he could legally go to a sanctuary if the powers that be believe it's in his best interest. We have many big cat sanctuaries in California. Some of them have very large enclosures that consist of many acres. 

"The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and National Park Service (NPS) announced plans today to capture the world-famous mountain lion P-22 and bring him in for a health evaluation. Following that evaluation, CDFW veterinarians and NPS biologists will determine the best next steps for the animal while also prioritizing the safety of the surrounding communities.

P-22 has been reported near human dwellings close to his habitat in Griffith Park. Reports include sightings, video camera recordings and physical encounters with the lion. P-22 is a remarkably old cat in the wild and, after being deemed responsible for killing a leashed pet last month, may be exhibiting signs of distress.

This is an unprecedented situation in which a mountain lion has continued to survive in such an urban setting. As P-22 has aged, however, the challenges associated with living on an island of habitat seem to be increasing and scientists are noting a recent change in his behavior. This underscores the consequences of a lack of habitat connectivity for mountain lions and all wildlife.

CDFW and NPS do not require assistance to capture and evaluate P-22 and ask that members of the public refrain from any involvement in the effort.

CDFW and NPS have long partnered together on issues related to P-22 and have been involved with him most of his life. Both agencies are actively monitoring the situation and evaluating the most humane options available for a plan of action for the lion and the community in which he lives."


@AnimalAdvUSA

@NatlParkService

@CaliforniaDFW

Pics of me with P22 at the groundbreaking for the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing.

Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates, p22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, los angeles, california, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife, wildlife rescue, @animaladvusa @marycummins
Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates, p22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, los angeles, california, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife, wildlife rescue, @animaladvusa @marycummins 

Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates, p22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, los angeles, california, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife, wildlife rescue, @animaladvusa @marycummins
Mary Cummins, Animal Advocates, p22, mountain lion, puma, cougar, los angeles, california, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife, wildlife rescue, @animaladvusa @marycummins 



Mary Cummins of Animal Advocates is a wildlife rehabilitator licensed by the California Department of Fish and Game and the USDA. Mary Cummins is also a licensed real estate appraiser in Los Angeles, California.


Google+ Mary Cummins, Mary K. Cummins, Mary Katherine Cummins, Mary Cummins-Cobb, Mary, Cummins, Cobb, wildlife, wild, animal, rescue, wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife rehabilitator, fish, game, los angeles, california, united states, squirrel, raccoon, fox, skunk, opossum, coyote, bobcat, manual, instructor, speaker, humane, nuisance, control, pest, trap, exclude, deter, green, non-profit, nonprofit, non, profit, ill, injured, orphaned, exhibit, exhibitor, usda, united states department of agriculture, hsus, humane society, peta, ndart, humane academy, humane officer, animal legal defense fund, animal cruelty, investigation, peace officer, animal, cruelty, abuse, neglect #marycummins #animaladvocates #losangeles #california #wildlife #wildliferehabilitation #wildliferehabilitator #realestate #realestateappraiser #realestateappraisal #lawsuit