Mountain Lion Recently Spotted in San Carlos

SAN CARLOS, CA — San Mateo County officials warned this week of a possible mountain lion sighting in the San Carlos area.

The following message was sent out via San Mateo County's Alert System:

Title: Mountain Lion Sighting – San Carlos

There was a possible mountain lion sighting in the canyon behind the 3000 block of Melendy Drive walking along the fire break in San Carlos. The animal was seen at approximately 1:00 pm today, September 25, 2016. Sheriff's Deputies responded to the location checked the surrounding area but did not locate the animal. Use caution.

Here are some important safety tips for you 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 check out the California Department of Fish and Wildlife web site, http://www.keepmewild.org

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