The video below was posted to TikTok by @llbhazzerd, who claims he:
“Got this footage of a mountain lion when (he) crawled 12 ft back in a cave”.
Why did he think it was a good idea to crawl 12 feet into a cave to mess with a mountain lion? We’ll never know.
For now, watch the video he captured, and join us in our disbelief:
@ontheedgelivin Got this footage of a mountain lion when I crawled 12 ft back in a cave. #wildlife #closeup #sketch #cougar #mtnlion #cave
It probably goes without needing to be said, but deliberately climbing into a mountain lion’s cave is not a good idea.
Here are tips for what to do if you ever encounter a mountain lion from the US Forest Service:
- If you spot a mountain lion and the animal is unaware of you, alter your route so that you will move away from its area.
- Never approach a mountain lion especially one that is feeding or with kittens.
- Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation. Always give them a way to escape.
- Do not run. Remain calm. Hold your ground or back away slowly.
- Continue facing the mountain lion, and maintain eye contact.
- Do all you can to appear larger; Stand upright, raise your arms, raise your walking stick, open your jacket.
- If you have small children or pets with you, try to pick them up without turning away or bending over.
- Never bend over or crouch down, avoid looking like a four-legged prey animal . Again, Do not bend over to pick up a rock or stick off the ground. This action may trigger a pounce response in a mountain lion.
- If the lion behaves aggressively, wave your arms slowly and speak firmly in a loud voice, and throw objects like the water bottle in your hand. The goal is to convince it that you are not prey and may be dangerous yourself.
- Try to remain standing to protect your head and neck.
- If attacked, fight back!! Use rocks, jackets, sticks to turn away the mountain lions.
- Report any mountain lion encounters or incident to the local Ranger District, or Fish and Wildlife Office.