Wildlife Rescuers Save an Abandoned and Starving Mountain Lion Cub and Move Him to a California Zoo

### Mountain Lion Cub Received Emergency Care After Abandonment

A tiny mountain lion cub, affectionately named Crimson, is being cared for at the Oakland Zoo after being found abandoned in Southern California. Rescued at the tender age of three weeks, Crimson is undergoing intensive rehabilitation, with devoted staff ensuring he receives necessary support every step of the way.

The cub’s arduous journey began when biologists noticed his mother was not returning to their den. Surveillance measures were put in place, using GPS and camera monitoring to observe the situation closely. When wildlife officials determined that Crimson had been left alone, they noted he had begun vocalizing more frequently and suffered a loss of approximately 10% of his body weight. It became evident that he required immediate intervention to survive.

On 25 March, rescuers from the National Park Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) transported the abandoned cub to the Los Angeles Zoo. There, the veterinary team conducted a thorough medical assessment, which included blood tests, a CT scan, and a physical examination. Although Crimson was found to be in “overall good health,” staff discovered that he was missing several toes on one of his paws, likely due to an injury sustained while living in the wild.

Following the initial health evaluation, Crimson was airlifted to the Oakland Zoo on 27 March, with assistance from Flying Tails Animal Rescue. This transfer marked the zoo’s 33rd successful mountain lion rescue, highlighting its ongoing commitment to wildlife rehabilitation.

Currently, the young cub is receiving round-the-clock care, including bottle-feeding every three hours to simulate the nurturing he would have received from his mother. Zoo officials emphasise the importance of close monitoring, as Crimson is at a sensitive stage in his development. “Although his health appears good at this time, he is at a delicate stage,” they said, pledging to observe his progress diligently.

Typically, mountain lion cubs remain with their mothers for up to 18 months, during which they learn essential survival skills. Due to this extended dependency, it has been determined that Crimson will not be able to return to the wild. However, plans are in motion for the eventual introduction of Crimson to Clover, another rescued cub currently under the zoo’s care.

Nik Dehejia, the CEO of Oakland Zoo, expressed his admiration for the rescue efforts undertaken by the staff. “I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless rescues,” he said. “There is something so deeply moving about watching our team pour themselves so completely into a single life.” The dedication of the zoo team reflects their commitment not just to Crimson but to the well-being of all animals in their care.

While the immediate goal is to ensure that Crimson grows healthy and strong, the zoo is also focussed on preparing him for his eventual interaction with Clover. Officials have indicated that once Crimson is larger and more robust, they will arrange an introductory meeting for the two cubs, which will be a significant step in Crimson’s rehabilitation journey.

As Crimson settles into his new home and continues to receive expert care, the community watches with hope and optimism. The journey of this young mountain lion serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of wildlife rescue efforts and the delicate balance of nature. By fostering an environment conducive to rehabilitation, the Oakland Zoo aims to give Crimson the chance to thrive in a way that reflects his natural instincts, despite the challenges he faced early in life.