Defending the Wild: How to Safeguard Against Mountain Lion Encounters

two men running along a road and screaming and both holding camerals

Following the recent attack by a mountain lion at a man sitting in hot tub with his wife in Colorado, USA, we discover some safety Tips from USDA Forest Service that can help anybody out of mountain lion attack at any location.

We also believe these tips can also be applied against most wild cats if sensibly followed.

Avoiding Mountain Lions on the Trail or in the Backcountry

Even at a distance a brief glimpse should be cause for alarm. Though the cougar is most likely to leave the area, you should group together and travel with great caution.
Make your presence known. Make noise, sing, talk loudly, or wear a bell.
Avoid walking or hiking alone. Travel with a group if possible.
Watch children closely and never let them run ahead or lag behind on the trail. Talk to children about lions and teach them what to do if they meet one.
Hike during daylight hours and stay on established trails.
Watch for signs of mountain lion use along the trail; scat, claw marks, scratch piles usually made of grass, dirt, pine needles and leaves.
Stay far away from kittens, their mother is nearby
Select a campsite away from thick brush, rock over-hangs and cliffs, and animal trails.
Avoid taking pets - they are easy prey and may attract mountain lions.
Do not leave pets or pet food outside and unattended while in camp, especially at dawn and dusk. Pets can attract mountain lions into developed areas.
If there are repeated sightings, be prepared to aggressively defend yourself and others. Be alert and on guard for the remainder of your hike.

If You Encounter a Mountain Lion

If you spot a mountain lion and the animal is unaware of you, alter your route so that you will move away from its area.
Never approach a mountain lion especially one that is feeding or with kittens.
Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation. Always give them a way to escape.
Do not run. Remain calm. Hold your ground or back away slowly.
Continue facing the mountain lion, and maintain eye contact.
Do all you can to appear larger; Stand upright, raise your arms, raise your walking stick, open your jacket.
If you have small children or pets with you, try to pick them up without turning away or bending over.
Never bend over or crouch down, avoid looking like a four-legged prey animal . Again, Do not bend over to pick up a rock or stick off the ground. This action may trigger a pounce response in a mountain lion.
If the lion behaves aggressively, wave your arms slowly and speak firmly in a loud voice, and throw objects like the water bottle in your hand. The goal is to convince it that you are not prey and may be dangerous yourself.
Try to remain standing to protect your head and neck.
If attacked, fight back!! Use rocks, jackets, sticks to turn away the mountain lions.
Report any mountain lion encounters or incident to the local Ranger District, or Fish and Wildlife Office.