An apparent major and widespread investigation by federal and state agents into mountain lion and bobcat hunting operations is currently ongoing in COLORADO and UTAH. Clients of these outfitters are being drawn into the investigation and may be facing state or federal charges. At this writing we know of three lion outfitters who have had their homes or offices searched, and client lists taken. At least one taxidermist shop has been searched with six unmounted mountain lion skins seized. And we have talked to one hunter who was interviewed by federal agents and voluntarily turned over his trophy.
Since agents and prosecutors will not talk about active investigations, or, in many cases, even confirm that an investigation is taking place, we cannot even be sure of the intent of this investigation. Here are the facts we know at this point.....
