Eds: APNewsNow.

Bismarck, N.D. (AP) North Dakota's Game and Fish Department has increased the number of mountain lions that can be killed by hunters this season, from five to eight.

The season begins Aug. 29 and ends March 31.

Regulations divide the state into two zones. Zone 1 in western North Dakota has a limit of eight cougars. The remainder of the state has no limits.

Last year's season ended in November in the western part of the state, after the quota of five cougars killed was met. One lion was killed in the rest of the state, which made up the other zone.

Only North Dakota residents may hunt mountain lions in the state.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 08-04-08 1626CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list