Halloween Mountain Lion Sighting Prompts Safety Reminders

Hikers spotted a mountain lion in Glendale Wednesday afternoon, authorities said.

The puma was seen east of the 2 Freeway near Stancrest Frontage Road in Glendale, according to the Pasadena Humane Society.

The report comes as Angelenos are donning costumes and heading out for a night of Halloween celebrations.

Officials took the timing as an opportunity to remind residents how to keep themselves safe should they encounter a mountain lion.

They released the following tips:

• Don’t feed deer; it is illegal in California and it will attract mountain lions.
• Deer-proof your landscaping by avoiding plants that deer like to eat. For tips, request A Gardener’s Guide to Preventing Deer Damage from DFG offices.
• Trim brush to reduce hiding places for mountain lions.
• Don’t leave small children or pets outside unattended. 
• Install motion-sensitive lighting around the house.
• Provide sturdy, covered shelters for sheep, goats, and other vulnerable animals.
• Don’t allow pets outside when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, and at night.
• Bring pet food inside to avoid attracting raccoons, opossums and other potential mountain lion prey.

Mountain lions are quiet, solitary and elusive. They typically prey on deer, but can also prey on pets and livestock.

While puma attacks on humans are extremely rare, residents are urged to take the following precautions, remembering that more than half of California mountain lion habitat:

• Do not hike, bike, or jog alone.
• Avoid hiking or jogging when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, and at night.
• Keep a close watch on small children.
• Do not approach a mountain lion.
• 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.
• If attacked, fight back.
• If a mountain lion is sighted, please call the Glendale Police Department 818-548-4911.

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