‘Hollywood cat’ no more: Los Angeles’ most famous cougar was euthanized Saturday, wildlife officials said.
The old cat, about eleven years old, was known to roam Hollywood Heights and its famous hillside landmark, hence his nickname over time.
Authorities decided to arrest him in early December because of his unpredictable behavior and possibly as a result of a collision with a vehicle.
According to a statement from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, veterinarians found injuries to his head and right eye and damage to internal organs.
Cougar suffered from kidney failure, emaciation, skin infections and gout.
“The most difficult, but compassionate decision was to end his suffering and stress by ending his life,” the statement said, adding, “B-22 (the animal’s code name, editor’s note) has had an extraordinary life and won the hearts of Los Angeles and many people.” .
California Governor Gavin Newsom praised the “incredible life” of the iconic big cat, who “captivated people around the world.”
Griffith Park, a 23 square kilometer natural island where the animal may have lived for a decade, is surrounded by highways and urban sprawl.
Experts were impressed by the P-22’s epic ride, which had to cross two major Los Angeles freeways to reach the park in 2012.
In a report on the animal, the National Park Service lamented that Griffith Park was too small to accommodate another mountain lion (P-22) and “has no chance of finding love.”
The “Hollywood Cat” became famous by appearing to the public several times, either on video or in the flesh.
A Facebook page created in his memory has more than 20,000 subscribers.
