Crimson's Story

Crimson was just three weeks old when wildlife biologists discovered that his survival was at risk. While monitoring his mother through GPS collar data and remote cameras, biologists with the National Park Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife determined that she had relocated to another den site, leaving her young cub behind.

Too young to survive on his own, Crimson faced another serious challenge. A severe injury to his left hind foot threatened his life, making immediate intervention essential.

Crimson was rescued and transported to the Los Angeles Zoo for emergency veterinary care. Recognizing his need for additional specialized treatment, Flying Tails, an animal air ambulance service, transported the tiny mountain lion to Oakland Zoo, where veterinarians worked to give him the best possible chance at recovery.

Despite their efforts, the damage to Crimson’s hind limb was too severe. Veterinarians determined that amputation was necessary to protect his health and provide him with the best opportunity for a long, healthy life.

What followed was a remarkable demonstration of resilience. As Crimson recovered from surgery, he gradually adapted to life on three legs. With specialized care and rehabilitation, he grew stronger, more mobile, and increasingly confident in navigating his surroundings.

Although Crimson survived his early challenges, his rescue at such a young age meant he could never safely return to the wild. He would need a permanent home capable of meeting his physical, behavioral, and veterinary needs for the rest of his life.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife found that home at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

Today, Crimson’s journey has brought him from the Santa Monica Mountains to the Ozarks of Arkansas. What began as an urgent effort to save a vulnerable mountain lion cub has become a lifelong commitment to his well-being.

For Crimson, rescue was only the beginning. At Turpentine Creek, he now has the opportunity to live the rest of his life with the specialized care, safety, and dignity every wild animal deserves.