His famed status earned him the nickname, “the Brad Pitt of mountain lions.” But on Saturday, the reign of L.A.’s resident cougar P-22 officially came to an end. He was humanely euthanized after a medical evaluation revealed a significant skull fracture, a chronic skin condition, and advanced kidney disease. He was approximately 11 years old.
P-22 was born around 2010. Two years later, he made the remarkable trek from the western Santa Monica mountains over two major freeways before settling in Griffith Park. P-22 sightings became a coveted exploit for Angelenos and were documented all over social media. He was tracked by wildlife officials via radio collar and became a rallying point for conservation efforts, including the successful launch of a wildlife passage over the 101 freeway.
In recent weeks, the geriatric lion had displayed disturbing behavior. He attacked two pet dogs, including one that was on a leash with its owner. Biologists believed he was suffering from health problems. After last week's capture, an examination confirmed he’d likely been hit by a car and was suffering from multiple chronic ailments as a result of age.
A memorial hike was held Sunday in Griffith Park to honor the larger-than-life lion. In a testament to his celebrity status, even California’s governor acknowledged P-22’s passing.
“P-22’s survival on an island of wilderness in the heart of Los Angeles captivated people around the world and revitalized efforts to protect our diverse native species and ecosystems,” Governor Newsom said in a statement. “The iconic mountain lion’s incredible journey helped inspire a new era of conserving and reconnecting nature, including through the world’s largest wildlife overpass in Liberty Canyon. With innovative coalitions and strategies to restore vital habitat across the state, we’ll continue working to protect California’s precious natural heritage for generations to come.”
Rest in peace, P-22.