Police Kill Mountain Lion, Sparking Outrage in Texas

Following overwhelming public support to update mountain lion hunting standards, a Texas Police Department kills an escaped lion, causing controversy.

The Incident:

For the first time in over 50 years, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department updated mountain lion hunting standards with support from diverse communities. However, the recent killing of a mountain lion by the Laredo Police Department has sparked outrage.

"Ranchers, trappers, hunters, hippies, outfitters, biologists, and wildlife advocates from across the state all converged to support more respectful management of our cats" - Ben Masters, Texans for Mountain Lions.

The Kill:

In early July, a mountain lion was spotted in Laredo, and attempts to contain and relocate it failed. The lion escaped a makeshift cage and was fatally shot by police, who cited its "aggression and natural instincts" and potential danger to the neighborhood.

Public Reaction:

The death has caused an uproar, with many criticizing the police and local officials for a poor handling of the situation and lacking the resources to tranquilize and relocate the animal. Comments on social media call the event a "disgrace" and fault the city for their mismanagement.

Mountain Lions in Texas:

Mountain lions are rarely seen in Texas, primarily inhabiting the Trans-Pecos region and South Texas brushlands. There has never been a confirmed death by mountain lions in Texas, with experts disputing a 2020 case reported by the Hood County Sheriff's Office. More info: The Dallas Morning News.