When biologists from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks noticed that a collared female mountain lion’s movements were showing telltale denning behavior, they waited until her new litter was about 5.5 to 6 weeks old before heading to the location to gather DNA sample from the baby kittens.
Joined by some of the houndsmen that helped in collaring the mother mountain lion during the winter months, Montana FWP experts announced their presence while descending from an above ridge knowing the adult lion would likely abandon the den temporarily rather than defend it. Despite knowing the mother lion probably would be long gone by the time they reached the litter, the group used extreme caution on approach.
Once the den was located the team discovered a pair of blue eyed kittens still young enough to be handled without sedation. The team quickly made small DNA extractions from the kittens ears and placed them back in the den.
“The goal of this ongoing research is to gather biological data to understand the diversity of these animals, which will help inform the management of mountain lions. Also, note, these are professionals doing biological research.“
All in all the operation went about as smooth as could be expected and the team walked away with valuable data for genetic research. The mother was expected to return to the den in due time and relocate to another spot which are more than plentiful in Montana. To be clear, these are professionals and they only handled the kittens for research purposes. Do not attempt this under any circumstances. In the words of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks:
“If you see a baby animal, paws off, leave baby animals alone.”
Related: Hiker Bravely Faces Down Mountain Lion In Glacier National Park
About Montana Mountain Lion Population:
Despite historic persecution, mountain lions are thriving once again in Montana. Lions have reoccupied their historic statewide range, and dispersing individuals now contribute to expanding populations across the western and midwestern U.S. This recovery is a testament to Montana’s tradition of protecting habitat, conserving native wildlife populations, and investing in research that provides the scientific basis for sound wildlife management decisions. READ MORE.
