Mountain Lion Spotted, Kills Deer In Portola Valley

PORTOLA VALLEY, Ca - A mountain lion was reportedly spotted this morning at around 5 a.m. attacking a deer in the area of Adair Lane and Sausal Drive in Portola Valley, according to San Mateo County Sheriff's officials.

The deer was found dead by arriving deputies. Sheriff's deputies said they conducted an extensive area check for the mountain lion, but were unable to locate the animal.

Authorities advise residents to use caution if in the area.

Here are safety tips to remember regarding mountain lions:

While it would be rare for a mountain lion to approach humans, you can follow a few simple rules to keep you and your family safe:

• Do not feed deer. It is illegal in California and it will attract mountain lions.
• If you see a mountain lion DO NOT APPROACH IT, especially one that is feeding or with offspring. Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation.
• Avoid hiking or jogging through wooded areas when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, or at night. Keep a close watch on small children when hiking or traveling in or about wooded areas.
• If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children.
• Keep all pets and pet food INDOORS at night.

Even the largest domesticated dogs and cats can be prey to a mountain lion. For more information about mountain lions http://www.keepmewild.orgwww.keepmewild.org.

--Patch file photo