California protects 1,400 mountain lions in Central and Southern regions

The California Fish and Game Commission unanimously voted on Feb. 12 to list mountain lions in the Central Coast and Southern California as threatened under the state's Endangered Species Act, extending protections to about 1,400 animals.

The California Fish and Game Commission unanimously voted on February 12 to list mountain lions in the Central Coast and Southern California regions as threatened under the state Endangered Species Act. That listing covers about 1,400 animals in those regions. Statewide estimates place California's mountain lion population between about 3,200 and 4,100, with roughly one-third to one-half in Central and Southern California. The vote followed a December 2025 recommendation and a public comment period in which most comments favored expanded protections. Key facts: - On Feb. 12 the commission voted unanimously to list mountain lions in the Central Coast and Southern California as threatened under California's Endangered Species Act. - The listing applies to roughly 1,400 mountain lions in those regions. - Statewide population estimates range from about 3,200 to 4,100, with a significant share living in Central and Southern California. - The recommendation to expand protections was made in December 2025 and was open to public comment prior to the vote. Summary: The commission's action extends threatened status to six mountain lion population groups in Central and Southern California and is intended to address risks linked to habitat loss and population isolation. The new listing covers about 1,400 animals. Undetermined at this time.