[pct-l] Mt. Lions in CA

[Georgi Heitman]

Correct...in CA, they're protected by law.  Contracted hunters are allowed,
tho they usually track with dogs that tree the cat so they stand no chance
of escape, which, unless there's been an attack on a human that requires a
hunt down and destroy decision, seems somewhat unsportsmanlike.  Ranchers
are supposed to get a deprivation permit if livestock is being taken, but
most ranchers tend to not wait, and take a 'shoot first and bury
immediately' attitude if they're lucky enough to spot the offending cat when
they've a rifle in hand.  This makes sense to me...they may never get
another chance.  Most ranchers around here don't keep hunting/tracking dogs,
mostly working herd dogs that may try to protect livestock and become
victims themselves.  A good herd dog is worth hundreds of $ and are prized
by their owners.
FireFly