Mountain lion spotted at Idaho college euthanized

LEWISTON (TMX) — Wildlife officials in Idaho say a mountain lion recently spotted on the campus of Lewis-Clark State College was euthanized Tuesday.

Idaho Fish and Game said the mountain lion was initially reported within Lewiston city limits on Feb. 1, when it was captured on surveillance video near the ticket office at the Lewis-Clark State College baseball field in the early morning hours.

The mountain lion was found by wildlife officials and Lewiston Police Department officers about a mile away two days later, in the early hours of Feb. 3. Officials said the animal was found “in an area where chemical immobilization could not be safely conducted,” and so it was euthanized due to public safety concerns.

Idaho Fish and Game said the mountain lion’s size and location indicate it was “likely” the same animal spotted at Lewis-Clark State College.

“Lethally removing an animal is never an easy decision,” the agency said. “Idaho Fish and Game prioritizes public safety when responding to wildlife incidents in urban or residential areas. Each situation is evaluated individually to determine the most appropriate response based on available information and conditions at the scene.”