A mountain lion that was first spotted on the Lewis-Clark College campus in Lewiston, Idaho, on February 1st, was located and humanely euthanized early Tuesday morning by Idaho Fish and Game.
According to news releases from the organization, the animal was first sighted in the late-evening hours on Sunday. Security footage captured the young mountain lion at the ticket booth by the school’s baseball field
The mountain lion, presumed to be the same in the footage based on its size, was found approximately one mile from the original sighting location. The large cat was found in an area where chemical immobilization could not be safely conducting and the decision was made to humanely euthanize the animal due to public safety concerns.
“Lethally removing an animal is never an easy decision. Idaho Fish and Game prioritizes public safety when responding to wildlife incidents in urban or residential areas. Each situation is evaluated individually to determine the most appropriate response based on available information and conditions at the scene.” – Idaho Fish and Game
Residents of the Lewiston area are encouraged to contact the Fish and Game Clearwater Regional Office at (208) 799-5010 for any and all mountain lion sightings. If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run and do not turn your back. Slowly back away from the animal and fight back if attacked. Read more on mountain lion safety in Idaho here.
