Colorado is separated into units, each with a set quota for the number of lions that can be hunted.
Hunters must complete a mandatory mountain lion course before they can obtain a license.
Before commencing the hunt, hunters need to verify that the unit is open and the quota has not been reached, as the recorded count of harvested lions is regularly updated.
After harvesting a mountain lion, it must be presented to a Parks and Wildlife Officer for inspection, a special seal is affixed to the hide, and a tooth is removed for age determination.
The lion's meat is processed in a similar manner to other large game animals like elk and deer, dispelling the misconception of "Trophy Hunting," which is illegal.
Mountain Lion Behaviors
Mountain lions frequently hunt without a clear intention, similar to how a domestic cat might present a nearly-dead mouse as a toy.
Sometimes, adult male lions will prey on females and cubs, this is why hunters target adult male lions.
Mountain lions have the ability to kill humans and love easy targets like domestic pets and livestock
A recent event in California led to the heartbreaking death of a young man following a mountain lion attack.