Dublin Police Warn Of Possible Coyote Or Mountain Lion Lurking

DUBLIN, CA — Police on Saturday were urging the public to keep eyes open for a "large animal" in Dublin — possibly a coyote or mountain lion.

Officers received a report of a large animal in the area of Tassajara Road and Fallon Road, the Dublin Police Department said on social media. The department was urging residents to keep small pets and children indoors.

"If you see it, please do not approach it and call Dublin Police."

The Dublin Police Department can be reached at 925-833-6670.

Mountain lions are typically elusive and quiet animals. And while attacks on humans are extremely rare, wildlife officials urge people to take caution.

For Californians who live in areas heavily populated by mountain lions, the state's Department of Fish and Wildlife advises the following:

• Do not hike, bike, or jog alone. Stay alert on trails.
• Avoid hiking or jogging when mountain lions are most active – dawn, dusk and at night.
• Keep a close watch on small children.
• Off leash dogs on trails are at increased risk of becoming prey for a mountain lion.
• Never approach a mountain lion. Give them an escape route.
• DO NOT RUN. Stay calm. Running may trigger chase, catch and kill response. Do not turn your back. Face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms, or opening your jacket if wearing one; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children.
• Do not crouch down or bend over. Squatting puts you in a vulnerable position of appearing much like a 4-legged prey animal.
• Be vocal; however, speak calmly and do not use high pitched tones or high pitch screams.
• Teach others how to behave during an encounter. Anyone who runs may initiate an attack.
• If a lion attacks, fight back. Research on mountain lion attacks suggests that many potential victims have fought back successfully with rocks, sticks, garden tools, even an ink pen or bare hands. Try to stay on your feet. If knocked down, try to protect head and neck.

Coyotes are also rarely a threat to humans, but they can harass domestic livestock and pets.

Here are some precautions that state wildlife officials urge in "coyote country":

• Never feed or attempt to tame coyotes. The result may be deadly conflicts with pets or livestock or serious injuries to small children.
• Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended.
• Install motion-sensitive lighting around the house.
• Trim ground-level shrubbery to reduce hiding places.
• Be aware that coyotes are more active in the spring, when feeding and protecting their young.
• If followed by a coyote, make loud noises. If this fails, throw rocks in the animal’s direction.
• If a coyote attacks a person, immediately contact the nearest Department of Fish and Wildlife or law enforcement office.