California wildfires are notorious for their impact on wildlife and residential areas. Amidst a blazing fire, firefighters rescued a mountain lion cub severely burned. The baby mountain lion sustained severe injuries and was rehabilitated by veterinarians at the Oakland Zoo. Keep scrolling for the full rescue story.
The Rescue
The baby mountain lion suffered from severe burns, especially on its paws and whiskers. Firefighters retrieved the cub from the blaze of the Zogg Fire. It was then transferred to the Oakland Zoo under the care of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The vets described the cub as feisty and alert and that his fighting spirit would serve him well on the road to recovery.
Medical Rehabilitation at Oakland Zoo
At the Oakland Zoo, the cub underwent X-rays to assess the possible damage from smoke inhalation. Fortunately, the cub had no broken bones but did have severe damage to the soft tissue on his paws. The cub’s treatment regime included pain medication, antibiotics and lots of fluids.
A New Chapter at Columbus Zoo
The cub was later named Captain Cal. Along with two female cubs rescued from the Auguest Compelx fire, found a new home at the Columbus Zoo. Having shared a similar experience, the three mountain lion cubs quickly bonded. The collaboration between Oakland Zoo and Columbus Zoo was critical in the survival of these cubs.
The Bigger Picture
The increasing frequency and intensity of wildlife fires across the globe pose a threat to animal habitats and survival. Firefighters and emergency response services play an important role on the frontline, not only protecting humans but also animals.
Meet The Mountain Lion Cub Who Survived
Thank you to everyone who was involved in the successful rescue and rehabilitation of the burned mountain lion cub in this California fire.
Up next:
Meet California’s Mountain Lion Population
Tara enjoys writing about marine animals like whales, sharks, dolphins and nudibranchs.
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