A new California Bill Aims to Allow Houndsmen to “Tree and Free” Problem Cats

It was 1990 when California voters passed Proposition 117 which effectively made mountain lions a specially protected species and banned hunting them. Since then, the decision has sparked controversy and ongoing debate, particularly in areas of the state that are home to significant populations of big cats. Some residents, especially those in rural communities, argue that the ban has had unintended consequences, leading to an increase in mountain lion encounters, attacks on livestock, and even threats to human safety.

The recent death of a young hunter in El Dorado County, attributed to a mountain lion attack, has reignited the debate and fueled calls for legislative action. In response, Senate Bill 818 was introduced last month, proposing a potential solution to address the perceived issue of increased mountain lion aggression.

The core of SB 818 lies in permitting trained houndsmen to track and haze "problem lions" with the use of dogs. This practice, known as "hazing," aims to instill a fear of humans in mountain lions, thereby discouraging them from venturing into human-populated areas and reducing the likelihood of attacks. Proponents of the bill, including the pro-hunting group HOWL, argue that restoring mountain lions' natural fear of humans is essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem and ensuring the safety of both humans and livestock.

To evaluate the effectiveness of this approach, the bill proposes a 5-year pilot program specifically within El Dorado County, where concerns about mountain lion encounters are particularly high. During this trial period, trained houndsmen would be authorized to employ hazing techniques under controlled conditions, with the goal of modifying mountain lion behavior and mitigating potential conflicts.

Following the 5-year pilot program, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife would conduct a comprehensive assessment of the program's outcomes. This assessment would include analyzing data on mountain lion encounters, attacks, and overall behavior within the county, comparing it to data from other regions and previous years. Based on this evaluation, the department would then determine whether the program has been successful in achieving its objectives and whether it warrants expansion to other parts of the state.

The debate surrounding SB 818 and the broader issue of mountain lion management in California is complex and multifaceted. While some argue that hazing is a necessary tool for managing mountain lion populations and protecting public safety, others express concerns about the potential for animal cruelty and the disruption of natural ecosystems. As the legislative process unfolds, it remains to be seen how policymakers will navigate these turbulent waters. The challenge lies in trying to find a balance between competing interests and science-based management of large cats, which as we all know, can be tough for some to stomach.