Mountain Lion Safety Tips

In honor of World Lion Day, let’s take a look at some mountain lion safety tips. Yes, mountain lions are cute, but they are also dangerous to encounter in the outdoors. Mountain lions (also known as cougars, pumas, and panthers) have a large range, stretching from coast to coast of the United States. They have been seen passing through states such as Michigan. Mountain lions are solitary creatures, unless a female is caring for young mountain lions.

Puma Profiles

Did you know that the U.S. National Park Service has been studying mountain lions in the Santa Monica Mountains. You can find some individual puma profiles here.

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These tips are taking from the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. National Park Service.

Do not run from a mountain lion. Running can stimulate a mountain lion’s instinct to chase. You’ll lose this race.
Keep children close to you.
Do not approach a lion. Seems obvious, but…
If you do see a mountain lion, do what you can to appear larger. Raise your arms, shout, open your jacket, etc. Make sure the mountain lion knows you’re there and can see them. They prefer to hunt stealthily and ambush their prey.
Do not crouch or bend over. This makes you vulnerable.
Fight back if attacked. Playing dead isn’t an effective option in this scenario.
Don’t hike alone. No matter where you’re hiking, this is always a good safety rule to follow.