Increase In Mission Viejo Mountain Lion Sightings, Officers Up Patrols

MISSION VIEJO, CA — Mission Viejo Animal Services is ramping up patrols in the city after receiving reports of a mountain lion sighting near the intersection of Los Alisos Boulevard and Trabuco Road, the City of Mission Viejo said in a statement.

This sighting comes less than two months after a mountain lion was spotted taking a dip in Lake Mission Viejo, according to previous Patch reports. A second mountain lion was seen and safely captured in Irvine after entering an office building late March, previous Patch reports said.

Mountain lions are apex predators native to Southern California and feed on deer, coyotes, raccoons, skunks and other animals that live in the area. Until recently, sightings of the big cat have been rare, the city said.

A spokesperson with the City of Mission Viejo attributed to higher mountain lion sightings to the increase in home-security cameras equipped with motion detectors.

Due to the increased sightings, Mission Viejo Animal Services is stepping up patrols in the city and actively documenting every mountain lion sighting reported to the service.

If a resident spots a mountain lion or other apex predator, such as a coyote or bobcat, they are asked by the service to fill out an online form and include as many details as possible in their report.

The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center services the cities of Mission Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills and Rancho Santa Margarita. Residents who need immediate assistance with a mountain lion sighting are asked by the service to call 949-470-3045.

Mountain lions are generally solitary animals that avoid humans as much as possible, a spokesperson for Mission Viejo Animal Services said. In general, they do not prey on domestic animals.

Authorities also reminded residents of the following safety tips for mountain lions and other wildlife:

• Don’t walk alone, bring a friend.
• Wear bright and highly contrasting clothing.
• Watch for signs and trail postings.
• Avoid jogging or mountain biking in low-light conditions at dusk and dawn.
• Stay on the trail.
• Supervise children and keep them within arm’s reach.
• Keep pets on a secure leash.
• Keep pets indoors.
• Don’t approach any wild animal.
• Give wildlife the time and space to steer clear of you.
• If you see a mountain lion, try to look as large as you can and do not crouch down.