STRANGE BEAST OF LAKE COUNTY

Lake County, California, was the scene of an encounter with a strange felid in 1868.  It was shot by one Archie McNab.  It did not look like a puma: its physique was somewhat different.  It was heavier to the fore and, while its coloration could generally be reconciled with that of a puma, it had stripes on its shoulders and front.  These resembled a mane.  Is this an example of the American lion?  At this juncture, who can say?

Clear Lake, Lake County, California