A group of mountain bikers out for ride at Point Mugu State Park in the far western Santa Monica Mountains were stopped in their tracks when they happened upon a mountain lion sipping from a puddle on a backcountry trail.
The encounter occurred on the lower part of Sycamore Canyon and group wisely provided it plenty of room while keeping a close eye on the apex predator. When encountering a mountain lion it is important to remember not to run, to stay in a group if possible, never crouch or bend over and to make yourself appear as large and intimidating as possible.
“Mountain lions are wild predators but usually do not confront humans. If you encounter one, make yourself as large as a possible by standing tall and holding out your arms. Pick up children to appear larger. Do not run or make any sudden moves.” -Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational Area
Thankfully this cat was more concerned with hydrating than with the onlooking bikers and encounter passed peacefully. This encounter is an excellent reminder to remain constantly vigilant and alert at all times when traveling in mountain lion country.
While mountain lion attacks on humans are exceedingly rare (1000 times more likely to get struck by lightning) they are not unheard of. Since 1890, there have been less than 50 verified mountain lion attacks in California, six of which were fatal. In most cases the victim was lone when the attacked occurred. Learn more about mountain safety from the California Department of Fish & Wildlife below.
California Department of Fish & Wildlife Mountain Lion Safety Guidelines:
Mountain lions typically pose little threat to humans, and generally avoid any human interaction. A person is one thousand times more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by a mountain lion. People who live in mountain lion habitat can take precautions to reduce their risk of encountering a mountain lion.
- Do NOT hike, bike, or jog at dawn, dusk, or at night. Avoid hiking, biking, or jogging alone.
- Deer-proof your property to avoid attracting a lion’s main food source.
- Remove dense vegetation from around the home to reduce hiding spaces.
- Install outdoor lighting to make it difficult for mountain lions to approach unseen.
- Secure livestock and outdoor large pets in sturdy, covered shelters at night.
If You Encounter a Mountain Lion
- Stay alert on trails. Keep pets leashed and walk with small children, don’t let them run ahead.
- Never approach a mountain lion. Give them an escape route.
- DO NOT RUN. Stay calm. Do not turn your back.
- Face the animal, make loud noise and try to look bigger. If with small children, put them on your shoulders.
- Do not crouch down or bend over.
