El Dorado County (Jan 25, 2025) – Deadly Encounter: Mountain Lion Attacks Spark Controversy in El Dorado County
A fatal mountain lion attack in El Dorado County last year has reignited the debate over how to manage the growing population of these apex predators. The incident involved Taylen Brooks, 21, and his younger brother Wyatt, 18, who were searching for deer antlers in the Sierra foothills. Despite employing recommended survival tactics—making themselves appear larger and shouting—the brothers were attacked by a young mountain lion. Wyatt survived, but Taylen tragically lost his life, prompting calls for changes in wildlife management policies.
Mountain lions, also known as cougars, pumas, or panthers, are protected under California’s Proposition 117, which bans hunting the species. However, critics argue that this protection has led to habituation, where lions lose their natural fear of humans, increasing the likelihood of attacks. John Chandler, a professional trapper in El Dorado County, advocates for reinstating controlled hunting or “tree-and-free” practices to manage lion populations and instill fear of humans. “Hunting solves everything,” Chandler stated, emphasizing its role in reducing dangerous human-wildlife encounters.
The attack has also drawn attention to alternative methods, such as the use of scare devices and livestock management. Brent Lyles, executive director of the Mountain Lion Foundation, believes coexistence is achievable through nonlethal means, including motion-activated noisemakers, electrified fencing, and livestock guardian dogs. “We don’t want mountain lions to live under the threat of needless or ruthless persecution,” Lyles said, calling for more research to determine effective deterrents.
Since 1890, mountain lions have been involved in at least 32 fatal attacks and over 170 nonfatal incidents in the United States. With California experiencing the highest number of attacks in the last four decades—22 injuries and four fatalities—the issue remains contentious. While some experts, like Bart George of the Kalispel Tribe, support tree-and-free for its effectiveness in restoring lions’ fear of humans, others question its ethics and long-term impact.
As the debate continues, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, in partnership with researchers, has launched new studies to evaluate various management strategies, including the use of hounds, scare devices, and fencing technologies. The results may shape future policies aimed at balancing public safety with wildlife conservation.
We Want to Hear From You
Should California revisit its policies on mountain lion management? Are nonlethal methods sufficient, or is controlled hunting necessary to ensure safety? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Sources:
New York Times Magazine
Mountain Lion Foundation
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
