RAPID CITY - Two mountain lions shot Saturday were both females, according to John Kanta, regional wildlife manager for the state Department of Game, Fish & Parks.

The lions where checked in on Sunday, within the 24 hours that hunters have to bring the animals in for inspection, he said. Both were shot too late Saturday to be brought in, he said.

Kanta said one female was about 4 years old. She has had cubs in the past, but apparently, she did not have cubs this year. The second lion's age was estimated to be about 18 months, making it too young to have cubs.

At sundown Sunday, Kanta had not heard from any other hunters.

Since the season began on Nov. 1, six female lions have been shot.

The season ends Dec. 31, or earlier if the limit is reached. The limit this year is 15 females or 35 lions.