Tribes Successfully Secure Burial of Beloved Mountain Lion P-22 in the Mountains Where He Once Roamed

The death of the beloved mountain lion, P-22, in late 2019 sparked a debate between the tribes in the Los Angeles area and wildlife officials over the preservation of the animal’s remains. Representatives of the Chumash, Tataviam and Gabrielino (Tongva) peoples argued that samples taken from the animal should be returned to the mountain for burial.

On Saturday, tribal leaders, scientists and conservation advocates honored P-22 by burying him in the mountains where he once roamed. P-22 had become a symbol for California’s endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity, having made his home in the urban Griffith Park for the past decade.

The debate over the preservation of P-22’s remains has highlighted the importance of respecting the wishes of the local tribes, who have a long history of living in the area. The tribes argued that the animal should be returned to the mountain for burial, as they believe that the animal’s spirit should be allowed to rest in peace.

The burial of P-22 has been seen as a victory for the local tribes, who have been successful in their efforts to ensure that the animal’s remains are respected and preserved. The debate has also highlighted the importance of respecting the wishes of the local tribes, and the need to protect the endangered mountain lions and their decreasing genetic diversity.