Overview
- The California Department of Fish and Wildlife released the 10-month-old male into a remote Santa Ana Mountains site on June 17 after five months of care.
- He arrived at the center on January 15 following emergency surgery and underwent close observation with targeted pain management and nutrition.
- Once stable, staff moved him to an outdoor enclosure to build strength and reinforce natural wariness of humans.
- At release he weighed about 60 pounds and displayed hunting and avoidance behaviors essential for independent survival.
- Two orphaned mountain lion cubs received in late March remain under minimal-contact care with partner agencies and await their own release after meeting health and behavior milestones.