Mountain Lion Spotted In South OC, Officials Urge Caution

MISSION VIEJO, CA — A mountain lion was spotted in an Orange County community early Thursday morning, prompting officials of one South OC city to provide additional patrols in an effort to keep residents safe.

Mission Viejo Animal Services announced that it would be upping patrols in the area of La Paz Road and Arbolitos after a cougar was spotted early Thursday morning.

Officials said in a statement that the cat seemed to be passing through the area, and showed no signs of unusual behavior.

“One important goal of Mission Viejo Animal Services is to be a steward of these magnificent animals while ensuring the public remains safe,” Mission Viejo Animal Services Supervisor Kyle Werner said in a statement. “The department works closely with state and university biologists when sightings are reported. Animal Control Officers will be providing extra patrols of the neighborhood and trails in the area.”

While mountain lions have historically roamed the region's wide green belts and creeks, the increase of technology and motion-sensor cameras have made mountain lion sightings much more prevalent.

They are generally elusive animals and avoid contact with humans, the city said.

Sightings of mountain lions, bobcats and coyotes can be reported by residents by following this link.

The city urged residents to practice the following safety tips when in areas with mountain lions.

• Take a friend with you; avoid venturing into cougar country alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings (i.e. don’t wear headphones).
• Bring a whistle or an air horn that could help scare away wild animals you may encounter.
• Keep children under the 16 close and don’t allow young children to play outdoors unsupervised. Walk with children between two adults or hold them by the hand.
• Keep your dog on a leash six feet long or less.

If you encounter a mountain lion, remember these important tips:

• Don’t run! Running will provoke the predatory chasing behavior of cougars as it would with other predators such as bears, coyotes, and wolves.
• Pick up small children or pets that are with you.
• Directly face the cougar but look at the cougar’s feet, not directly into its eyes to avoid appearing aggressive.
• If the cougar displays aggressive behavior, try to appear larger—raise your arms or open your jacket over your head.
• Make noise by yelling, blowing a whistle or an air horn.
• If you have an umbrella, quickly open and close it while facing the cougar.
• Do not approach the cougar. Give it ample space to run away – don’t corner it.
• If there are cubs, be careful not to get between them and their mother.