Oklahoma Confirms Mountain Lion Kittens: A Sign of Reestablishment
Oklahoma has long been a hotbed for mountain lion tales, with residents sharing stories about sightings ranging from dusk encounters to elusive game camera images. While the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) has noted occasional mountain lion passings through the state, they lacked definitive proof of a stable population—until now.
For the first time in Oklahoma’s history, ODWC has confirmed photographic evidence of mountain lion kittens, marking a significant milestone that suggests these big cats may be establishing a permanent presence rather than simply passing through. “That’s the first step and the key step in having what would be considered an established population,” stated Jerrod Davis, Senior Programs Director of the ODWC.
Once eradicated by early settlers in the 1800s, mountain lions are making a remarkable comeback in Oklahoma without human intervention. The population is believed to be dispersing from established groups in nearby states like Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas.
In recent years, thanks to improved trail camera technology and public cooperation, sightings have surged, with 85 confirmed in the last 26 years. Notably, Osage County leads in reported sightings, with residents like Alissa Loftin and Mitchell Dobson capturing remarkable images of these elusive creatures. These sightings highlight the strength of Oklahoma’s ecosystem, as mountain lions are considered an indicator species of environmental health.
Despite the positive developments, the ODWC continues to monitor mountain lion populations closely. Residents are reminded that it’s illegal to harm these animals unless they pose a direct threat. As the state learns to coexist with mountain lions, locals like Loftin and Dobson hope for more sightings and stories that celebrate the cats’ return to Oklahoma.
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