Mountain Lion expected to be considered a threatened species at February Fish & Game Commission
They aren’t as prevalent around here, however Mountain Lions are a part of the hi-desert ecosystem. At the next meeting of the California Fish and Game Commission (February 11-12, 2026), the board will consider a petition to put the Mountain Lion of the southern and central coastal region (Puma concolor) on the threatened or endangered species list.
The North American mountain lion has also been known as a “puma,” “cougar,” “panther,” and “catamount.” It’s also been in the news lately. A mountain lion is suspected in the death of a lone female hiker in Colorado this last week, and the LA Times has reported on a mountain lion killing pets and game in a neighborhood in Monterey County.
Attacks are relatively rare though. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife says there have only been six mountain lion fatalities in the state since 1890, roughly one every 22 and a half years.
Read: Report a Wildlife Sighting in Joshua Tree National Park
Mountain lions became a specially protected species in California in 1990 with the passage of the California Wildlife Protection Act. That Act established some exemptions for the take of mountain lions to preserve public safety; protect private property and livestock; and to protect federally listed bighorn sheep populations.
Notice of final petition (Fish & Game Commission)
Mountain Lions in California (CDFW)
