Target: Doug Schoenrock, Director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
Goal: Protect mountain lions from deadly vehicle collisions on highways.
The tragic death of a healthy male mountain lion on an Arkansas highway has spotlighted the alarming fate of this species, which was extirpated from the state by unregulated hunting and habitat loss over a century ago. This incident marks the first confirmed mountain lion death since February 2024 and only the third since 1975, underscoring the precarious state of the mountain lion population in the region. With mountain lions having been a native species until their drastic decline, the loss of even a single animal carries significant implications for biodiversity and ecosystem health.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has noted that the mountain lion, which measured 83 inches and weighed approximately 160 pounds, was roaming in search of territory, a behavior common among male mountain lions. Recent reported sightings, including one near DeGray Lake, further illustrate the potential revival of the species in Arkansas, highlighting the urgent need for responsible wildlife management. Unfortunately, there have been no confirmed sightings of female mountain lions since 2010, signaling a dire situation that calls for immediate action to enhance conservation efforts and protect this elusive species from further demise.
To prevent further tragedies and ensure the survival of mountain lions in Arkansas, it is imperative that there is accountability for past actions that have negatively impacted their populations. Therefore, the demand is clear: enforce stricter regulations to prevent unregulated hunting and habitat destruction, and bolster efforts to protect mountain lions and their natural habitats for future generations.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Director Schoenrock,
The recent death of a mountain lion on State Highway 84 serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by this once-native species in Arkansas. With only three confirmed deaths since 1975, this incident highlights the fragility of the mountain lion population, which has been reportedly impacted by extensive hunting and habitat loss. Immediate action is necessary to prevent further decline and to protect these majestic creatures as they attempt to reclaim their rightful place in the ecosystem.
The findings presented by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission indicate a growing number of mountain lion sightings, yet no evidence of females or cubs has been confirmed. The apparent absence of breeding pairs is concerning, suggesting a failure in conservation strategies for a species that was once integral to Arkansas’s wildlife balance. Stricter regulations are needed to both protect remaining individuals and facilitate the return of breeding populations to the state.
The circumstances surrounding the mountain lion’s death call for a reassessment of conservation priorities and regulatory practices. We urge you to take immediate steps to implement stricter protections for mountain lions and the habitats they require. Accountability for the management of wildlife is essential to ensure the survival of this vital species in our state.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
