Researchers are keeping a close eye on two mountain lion cubs in Orange County after their mother was killed earlier this month.
The mother, named F-390, was collared by UC Davis’ California Carnivores Program.
Dr. Fernando Nájera, who leads the program, told KNX News’ Emily Valdez that F-390 was crossing Ortega Highway when she was hit by a car and killed.
“At that time, she was still with the kittens,” Dr.Nájera said. “We are estimating them to be around 14, 15 months of age.”
Dr.Nájera said researchers were able to collar the female kitten last Saturday, but not the male.
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“We are going to be able to assess if they're able to hunt prey as a deer or coyote or alike,” he said.
He said there are only between 30 and 40 pumas in the Santa Ana Mountains.
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