What Precautions Can People Take to Avoid Mountain Lion (Cougar) Attacks?
The Department of Fish and Game recommends the following: Don’t hike alone Travel in groups or pairs. Keep kids close. Adults should keep children close and supervise them on trails or in camp grounds. Predators will hunt weak, small, or sick animals. Children trigger predatory behavior through their activities and vocalizations. Do not approach wild animals. Most wild animals will try to avoid a confrontation. Give them a way to escape and don’t purposely approach them. Don’t run to escape from a mountain lion. Stand still. Running can stimulate the instinct to attack. DFG recommends that you stand, face the animal, and make eye contact. Small children should be pulled into you, or picked up if possible. Keep them quiet and prevent panic. Remain upright. Squatting, crouching, or bending presents a similar image to that of a four-legged prey animal. Avoid those activities. Appear more threatening. Raise and wave your arms slowly. Throw stones, branches, or whatever is within reach with
