Fatal mountain lion attacks are rare. Here’s how Colorado wildlife officials responded to the recent one

It was a major story in Colorado: A hiker was found dead on New Year's Day, after a suspected mountain lion attack in Glen Haven, in the foothills west of Loveland.   

The Larimer County Coroner later confirmed that 46-year-old Kristen Marie Kovatch of Fort Collins had died as a result of the mountain lion attack. 

State wildlife officials responded by euthanizing two juvenile mountain lions in the area, and found that one had human DNA on its paws.  

Since the attack, news reports have indicated that other hikers have encountered mountain lions in that area.  

All this leads to larger questions about how state wildlife officials manage mountain lions through hunting and other methods. For instance, does an attack like this impact the way that they manage these animals? 

Erin O'Toole talked with Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, for insights into mountain lion behavior, and the agency’s response to the recent attack.  

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Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole
Executive Producer: Brad Turner
 
Theme music by Robbie Reverb
Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.

What is In The NOCO?

KUNC's In The NOCO is a daily look at the stories, news, people and issues important to you. It's a window to the communities along the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The show explores the big stories of the day, bringing context and insight to issues that matter. And because life in Northern Colorado is a balance of work and play, we explore the lighter side of news, highlighting what makes this state such an incredible place to live.