Lion killing could have been avoided

The recent killing of a mountain lion by police officers in Whitefish is an unfortunate incident that could have possibly been avoided.

Mountain lions are, on occasion, found passing through developed areas. Typically, they’re young animals dispersing and trying to find a mate and a home. They move through without harm to humans or domestic animals and avoid encounters whenever possible. Unfortunately, some lions mistakenly find themselves in the wrong place, causing public concerns. This often causes impulsive decision-making by officials who are not equipped with the best available information on how to handle such situations.

This disheartening situation demonstrates the need for Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks to adopt humane wildlife management protocols that can be implemented by police officers. These should prioritize hazing, letting animals leave on their own and translocation of animals that are found in human communities before lethal control is considered.

Currently, mountain lions occupy only a fraction of their historic habitat. The death of even one lion sets back conservation efforts — especially a female lion, the biological bank account of the species.

Additionally, killing a female lion can leave multiple kittens orphaned, left to die of starvation, exposure or predation.

Montana is the second highest mountain-lion-killing state in the U.S. because of high levels of trophy hunting. We must work harder to protect these animals in Montana and beyond.

— David Pauli, Washington, D.C., senior adviser, Humane Society of the United States