Living with Mountain Lions in Northern California
Friday, June 27, 2008
For Tim and his family living in Northern California with mountain lions living nearby...the California Department of Fish and Game maintains that moving problem mountain lions is not an option. It causes deadly conflicts with other mountain lions already there or the relocated mountain lion returns.
Here are some facts about mountain lions that we hope are helpful:
Mountain lions prefer deer but, if allowed, they also eat pets and livestock, which you said you are already having problems with!
Do not feed deer; it is illegal in California and it will attract mountain lions.
Deer-proof your landscaping by avoiding plants that deer like to eat. For tips, request A Gardeners Guide to Preventing Deer Damage from DFG offices.
Trim brush to reduce hiding places for mountain lions.
Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended. (Do you have a fenced in yard or can you build a high fence around part of your yard for your children?)
Install motion-sensitive lighting around the house.
Provide sturdy, covered shelters for sheep, goats, and other vulnerable animals.
Do not allow pets outside when mountain lions are most active at dawn, dusk, and at night.
Bring pet food inside to avoid attracting raccoons, opossums and other potential mountain lion prey.
And some tips to staying safe:
Do not hike, bike, or jog alone.
Avoid hiking or jogging when mountain lions are most active at dawn, dusk, and at night.
Keep a close watch on small children.
Do not approach a mountain lion.
If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children.
If attacked, fight back.
If a mountain lion attacks a person,
immediately call 911.
How to identify mountain lion tracks vs. dog tracks:
The mountain lion track on the left can be distinguished from the dog track on the right by the absence of toenail prints and by the M shaped pad.
And finally, we didn't get your phone number, Tim, but please let us know if you see the mountain lion again or please call back so we can have your phone number. In the meantime we will work on contacting someone that can help you! Thanks for calling and stay safe!
