Problems with mountain lions
 To stay safe when hiking in mountain habitat
Do not hike alone, especially at dusk and dawn.
Keep children close to you—don’t let them out of your sight. |
What to do if you encounter a mountain lion
• Do not approach a mountain lion.
• Do not run from a mountain lion—running will trigger a lion’s hunting instinct.
• Stand up straight, do not bend over and look the lion in the eye.
• Look as large as you can. Raise your arms and wave them. Open your jacket. Pick up
your children (without bending over).
• Look intimidating—talk loudly and throw rocks and sticks (but don’t bend over to pick
them up).
• If attacked, fight back. |
If you live in mountain lion habitat
• Don’t feed wildlife.
• Deer-proof your yard—avoid plants that deer prefer to eat.
• Remove dense vegetation that provides cover for lions.
• Keep pets secure—keep them indoors or in a secure enclosure with a top at night.
• Keep children safe—make sure they are indoors between dusk and dawn. |
Report all encounters with mountain lions to California Department of Fish and Game. They are also interested in sightings of dead or injured mountain lions. |
For further advice on mountain lions click one of the links below.
Mountain lions in the news and FAQ's
Keep me wild |
