North Dakota Mountain Lion Population Subject of Study

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota's Game and Fish Department is holding public meetings to discuss the state's mountain lion population.

Results of a research project and biological findings from lions killed over the last decade show the population has steadily declined.

North Dakota has had a mountain lion hunting season every year since 2005. Game and Fish in conjunction with researchers from South Dakota State University launched the first part of a two-phase research project in 2011. The second phase is expected to be completed next year.

Furbearer biologist Stephanie Tucker says officials have made "amazing headway" the last four years and will have an even better handle on the population when the study's second phase is complete.

Meetings are Feb. 23 in Bismarck, Feb. 24 in Fargo and Feb. 29 in Killdeer.