WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A MOUNTAIN LION

SUMMARY
Mountain lion encounters are rare but can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. Staying calm, appearing confident, and knowing what to do are critical to protecting yourself. This guide explains safe, practical steps to take if you see a mountain lion.

FEATURES

• Stay calm and don’t run: Running may trigger a chase response.

• Appear larger and confident: Raise your arms, open a jacket, and stand tall.

• Maintain eye contact: Don’t crouch or turn your back.

• Make noise: Shout or clap to scare the animal away.

• Protect children and pets: Keep them close and pick up small animals or kids.

• Fight back if attacked: Use rocks, sticks, or any tools to defend yourself.

GUIDE DESCRIPTION 
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are elusive predators that generally avoid people. However, as human populations expand into their habitats, encounters are becoming more common. While attacks are rare, knowing what to do if you see a mountain lion is essential for safety.

The most important rule is do not run. Running can trigger the mountain lion’s instinct to chase, putting you in greater danger. Instead, remain calm, plant your feet, and prepare to respond assertively.

To discourage the animal, make yourself appear larger and more intimidating. Stand tall, raise your arms, open your jacket if wearing one, and wave slowly. The goal is to convince the mountain lion that you are not prey.

Always maintain eye contact. Do not crouch, bend over, or turn your back, as these behaviors make you appear vulnerable. Slowly back away while facing the lion, giving it plenty of space to retreat.

If the mountain lion does not leave, make loud noises. Yell, clap, bang rocks, or use an air horn if available. This can startle the animal and reinforce that you are not easy prey.

It’s critical to protect children and pets during an encounter. Pick up small children and keep pets leashed and close to you. Never allow kids to run or scream, as this may excite the lion.

In the unlikely event of an attack, you must fight back aggressively. Use rocks, sticks, or any available objects to strike the lion, especially targeting its face and eyes. Many survivors of mountain lion attacks were able to drive the animal off by fighting with determination.

To reduce the risk of encounters, avoid hiking alone at dawn or dusk when mountain lions are most active, keep dogs on leashes, and never leave food outside that might attract prey animals like deer.

By staying calm, making yourself appear strong, and knowing when to fight back, you greatly increase your chances of deterring a mountain lion encounter safely.

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