The Journey of Maple and Willow, Rescued Mountain Lion Cubs

Maple and Willow

Fall 2023

On November 14th 2023, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Service rescued and transported two young female mountain lion cubs, found wandering the city of Burlingame, to Oakland Zoo's Veterinary Hospital for rehabilitation. Sadly, the suspected mother of the sisters was found killed by a vehicle days before, leaving these two sisters to fend for themselves.

Our veterinary team jumped into action and performed full examinations, while estimating their ages to be 6-10 weeks old. They were administered fluids, treated for parasites and fleas, and tested for viruses. Besides being dehydrated and underweight, they appeared in relatively good health.

By the second day of care, they were eating like champs, enjoying their warm setting, and receiving lots of love from their care team. They were also given names - Maple and Willow. Being in good shape, the sisters didn't require an extensive triage like most of our admitted mountain lion cub patients, and were able to be housed together soon after arrival. They're still recovering and receiving fluids as well as getting used to their new temporary home, but Maple and Willow have a wonderful head start compared to many of their orphaned predecessors.

Maple and Willow represent the 25th and 26th mountain lions rescued and treated at Oakland Zoo. Continue below to discover more of the success stories that exemplify the courageous and extensive efforts our Oakland Zoo Veterinary Hospital team puts into the physical rehabilitation and mental maturation of these amazing animals.