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Mountain Lions in Open Space

A mountain lion lying on the ground amidst dry foliage and stones.
Mountain lion lying along the creek. Photo by Joe Galkowski. 

Although sightings are generally rare, Mountain lions have been spotted in Sycamore Grove Park. We encourage park visitors to be aware of safety precautions to practice in mountain lion territory and actions to take in case of an encounter.

An illustration of a mountain lion and bobcat side by side. 3 silhouettes of mountain lion, bobcat, and domestic cat showing size differences.

The mountain lion (Puma concolor) is also referred to as puma, cougar, and panther. Mountain lions are one of the two members of the wild cat family living in California. The other, smaller wild cat species is the bobcat. Mountain lions are 7-8 feet long while bobcats are 2-3 feet long. Their tails are long, about the length of their body or longer, with a black tip. In comparison, bobcats have short tails.  Mountain lions are usually tan/brown with lighter coloration on the underside of their bodies. 

Mountain lions are carnivores and great hunters. They prey mainly on large herbivores such as deer. Mountain lions are usually most active during dawn and dusk. Although they prefer areas with coverage, mountain lions can be seen in various habitats including forests and open fields.  Mountain lions are solitary animals that are known for being incredibly elusive.

Tips to Recreate Safely in Mountain Lion Habitat 

  • Do not hike alone.
  • Keep dogs on a leash.
  • Keep small children close to adults.
  • Be extra cautious when hiking around dawn or dusk.

If You See a Mountain Lion:

Stay calm

  • Stand upright while facing the mountain lion. Stand your ground or back away slowly.

Do not approach it

  • Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation.

Do not run

  • Running may trigger a mountain lion’s instinct to chase. Make eye contact.

Do not crouch down or bend over

  • When you crouch or bend over, it makes you look like a prey animal to mountain lions.

If you have small children with you, pick them up

  • Do this so the child/children don’t panic and run. Do not bend or crouch when picking up children.

Make yourself look big

  • Raise your arms above your head, wave your arms slowly.

Speak firmly in a loud voice

Mountain Lion Attacks

Mountain lion attacks on humans are incredibly rare. In California, there have been less than 50 confirmed mountain lion attacks on people since 1890. Out of all confirmed attacks, only six ended in death. You are one thousand times more likely to be struck by lightning than you are to be attacked by a mountain lion. Despite the very low odds, knowing what to do in the event of an attack is important.

If the Mountain Lion Attacks You:

  • Fight back
  • Shout and make noise
  • Do not turn your back

Want to learn more?

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