I’m writing this blog because living close to nature means sharing space with wildlife and that comes with both beauty and responsibility. Knowing how to stay safe protects not only us and our loved ones but also the animals themselves. When people understand what to do and how to react, we reduce unnecessary fear, prevent conflict, and allow these incredible creatures to stay wild where they belong. Responsible awareness helps preserve the balance between our communities and the natural world around us.

Several years ago, a shocking tragedy in California reminded us how powerful and unpredictable nature can be. Two cyclists were attacked by a mountain lion on a wooded trail, one was killed, the other severely injured. Encounters like that are extremely rare, but they highlight an important truth: when a predator feels cornered, threatened, or desperate for food, it can behave in unexpected ways.

Now, reports have surfaced of a mountain lion sighting near my neighborhood in Utah. While there’s no need for panic, it’s essential to understand how to react and protect your loved ones. Mountain lions are majestic and reclusive creatures, but when they wander into populated areas, it’s a sign that we need to take precautions.

Below are detailed steps on how to stay safe, protect your pets and family, and what to do if you encounter one.

🐾 Keep Pets and Small Animals Indoors Overnight

Mountain lions are most active during dusk, dawn, and nighttime hours. Outdoor pets, especially cats, small dogs, and backyard animals like chickens or rabbits, can easily attract them.

Safety steps:

• Bring pets inside before dusk. Keep them indoors until after sunrise.
• Install motion-sensor lights near animal enclosures or backyards. Bright lights can deter predators.
• Secure enclosures: ensure fencing is tall (at least 6–8 feet) and buried a few inches underground to prevent digging or jumping.
• Avoid leaving pet doors open overnight, as wildlife can be drawn by smells or curiosity.

Even if you haven’t personally seen the animal, it’s better to assume it’s still nearby until officials confirm otherwise.

🚸 Watch Children Closely Outdoors

Mountain lions tend to avoid humans but may see quick, small movements as prey behavior. Children playing outside, especially during dawn or dusk, can unintentionally attract their attention.

Safety steps:

• Always supervise children when they’re outside, especially if your property borders wooded or undeveloped land.
• Teach kids not to run if they ever see a large animal. Instead, they should stand tall, make noise, and slowly back away.
• Use buddy systems — children should never walk or bike alone in areas with known wildlife sightings.

Remember, it’s not about fear — it’s about awareness. Educating your family helps keep everyone safe.

🗑️ Secure Garbage Cans and Avoid Leaving Pet Food Outdoors

Mountain lions follow prey and prey animals often follow food. Leaving out pet food, unsecured garbage, or compost can draw smaller animals like raccoons, rodents, or deer, which in turn attract predators.

Safety steps:

• Store garbage cans in a garage or shed until pickup day.
• Use tight-fitting lids and bungee cords if necessary to keep them sealed.
• Feed pets indoors, or remove food dishes immediately after feeding.
• Keep bird seed in sealed containers, spilled seed can attract rodents.

Reducing food sources in your yard makes it far less interesting to wildlife of any kind.

🚶 Make Noise When Walking or Biking the Murdock Trail

Mountain lions generally want nothing to do with people, they just need to know you’re there. Making noise while walking, hiking, or biking can alert animals and give them a chance to move away.

Safety steps:

• Talk, sing, or carry a small bell or whistle when walking.
• Travel in groups when possible — lions are far less likely to approach multiple people.
• Avoid wearing earbuds in areas with low visibility. Staying aware of your surroundings is your best defense.
• Keep dogs leashed — unleashed dogs may chase or provoke wildlife, increasing danger for both you and your pet.

If you do see a mountain lion:

• Do not run. This can trigger a chase instinct.
• Stand tall, make yourself look larger, wave your arms, and shout loudly.
• Slowly back away while maintaining eye contact.
• If the animal acts aggressively, throw rocks or sticks without turning your back.

📞 Report Sightings Immediately

If you spot a mountain lion or find signs of one (such as tracks, scat, or a fresh animal kill), do not attempt to track or approach it yourself.

Who to contact:

• Call your local Police Department 
• Your States Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR)

Reporting sightings helps wildlife officials track movement patterns and ensure the animal is relocated safely if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Living near beautiful landscapes means occasionally sharing space with wildlife. Mountain lions are an important part of the ecosystem, helping control deer populations and maintain balance in the wild. By staying alert, securing your property, and reporting sightings, we can all coexist safely.

Stay aware, stay cautious, and help keep your community safe.

Presented by Coach Trina at Dragoyle.com