Question for Blind Sow (mt lion question)

[binoc74]

Doug,
Can you give me some clarification on whether or not it is LEGAL or ILLEGAL to shoot/hunt a mountain lion in the state of Iowa. The area where I coyote hunt has had several hard confirmed sightings of a mountain lion in my core area. I have looked through the current 2002 regulations and can find no mention of the legality of shooting a mt lion.

THANKS!

BINOC

 

[smallmunster]

Mountains lions are currently an unprotected species. This means they can be shot legally for any reason. If you see one you can shoot it. The DNR would want to see the animal after you shot it to age it, see what it was eating, etc... The legislature had the opportunity to give protection to the mountain lion, but they did not.

 

[Blind Sow]

The cougar is not protected in Iowa under any law. If you see one and want to shot it you are not in any legal trouble.

Doug Clayton

State Conservation Officer

 

[missed again]

how about bears

 

[smallmunster]

I think black bears are the same way.