Mountain lions are not trophies.
Mountain lions were here long before our roads and neighborhoods. Protecting their habitat means giving these incredible wild cats a real chance to survive.
California is taking stronger action to protect some of its most [vu.lner.able] mountain lion populations.
The California Fish and Game Commission recently determined that mountain lions in Southern California and the Central Coast warrant protection under the California [En.dan.ger.ed] Species Act.
The decision recognizes the serious [th.re.ats] these wild cats face as their habitat continues to shrink and become more fragmented.
Mountain lions need large areas to roam, hunt, find mates, and raise their young. Roads and highways can cut through their habitat and put them in [da.ng.er] of being [h.i.t] by vehicles.
Development can also isolate populations and make it harder for mountain lions to move safely between areas.
These cats also face other [th.re.ats], including [ro.de.nti.cide] exposure and the [lo.ss] of genetic diversity when populations become [isolated]. California has protected mountain lions from recreational [hu.nti.ng] for decades.
This new action adds another layer of protection for [vu.lner.able] populations that are struggling to survive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Mountain lions belong in California’s wild places. They are important [pr.eda.tors] that help keep ecosystems in balance. They should not have to [di.sa.ppe.ar] simply because humans keep taking more of the land they need to survive.
Protecting wildlife is not about choosing animals over people. It is about finding ways for both to exist.
Every safe wildlife crossing, every protected habitat, and every mountain lion that makes it safely across a road matters. 
They should be protected everywhere. The wildlife iverpasses might be a solution for 1 if the largest economies in the world.
These creatures deserve as much right to live as an human being!
#protect #california #Governor #mountainlion #trophyhunting #lions #animals #wildanimals
