Rescue and Early Challenges
Crimson, a mountain lion cub, was found abandoned in his den on March 25, at just three weeks old, in the Santa Monica Mountains. According to the Los Angeles Times, wildlife officials rescued him and transferred him to the Los Angeles Zoo. He had lost 10% of his body weight and had several toes missing on a hind leg, which zoo officials attributed to an injury sustained in the wild. His overall condition was described as healthy but "subpar."
ABC7 Los Angeles reported that Crimson was abandoned by his mother and had been receiving treatment at the Oakland Zoo. After his transfer, caretakers bottle-fed him around the clock, as his health was considered "at a delicate stage" requiring close monitoring, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Treatment and Amputation
Veterinarians at the Oakland Zoo spent months attempting to save Crimson's injured hind foot. The Los Angeles Times detailed that the cub underwent multiple bandaging and bracing techniques to aid limb development. However, protecting the injured leg became increasingly difficult as Crimson grew larger and more active. Zoo officials said that despite using a brace, Crimson's paw couldn't bear weight.
After several months of treatment, the decision was made to amputate the leg. In a Facebook post, zoo officials explained, "Amputating the affected limb [gives] him the best chance for long-term comfort and mobility." ABC7 Los Angeles confirmed that the surgery was performed successfully.
Recovery and Outlook
Crimson, now about 5½ months old, is reportedly getting along well on three legs. The zoo said in a statement that Crimson "has proven to be incredibly resilient," returning almost immediately to his curious, energetic behavior. New video shows the cub sprinting around his habitat and appearing to thrive.
The zoo expressed optimism about Crimson's future, noting in its post: "Based on his recovery trajectory to date, we are optimistic that he will continue to adapt exceptionally well. While he may experience some limitations in climbing ability or speed, these can be accommodated through thoughtful habitat design and specialized husbandry in an appropriate future home."
Crimson's case is not the first of its kind for the Oakland Zoo. According to the Los Angeles Times, last year the zoo took in a trio of 3-month-old cubs—Fern, Thistle, and Spruce—after their mother was likely struck and killed by a car.