Special Bulletin
Subject: MOUNTAIN LION SIGHTING
Date: October 6, 2008
Early this morning a contractor working at the Tuscany Village construction site on the southeast corner of campus reported seeing what appeared to have been a mountain lion exiting the site. It is likely that this cat migrated down from Sonoma Mountain, just east of the campus. Should you happen to see such an animal on or near campus, please notify Police Services at (707) 664-2143. This notice is being sent as a precautionary measure and to share safety tips concerning this topic.
According to California Department of Fish and Game, foothills and mountains and most suitable mountain lion habitat, while valleys and deserts are considered unsuitable. Mountain lion attacks on humans are rare. The California Department of Fish and Game recommends:
- DO NOT HIKE ALONE – Make plenty of noise to reduce your chances of surprising a lion. Go in groups, with adults supervising children. A sturdy walking stick is a good idea: you can use it to ward off a lion.
- STOP! – Do not run from a lion. Back away from it slowly, but only if you can do so safely. Running may stimulate a lion's instinct to chase and attack. Face the lion and stand upright. Make eye contact. If you have small children with you, pick them up so they won't panic and run. Although it may seem awkward, pick the child up without bending over or turning away from the lion.
- DO NOT BEND OR CROUCH OVER – DO ALL YOU CAN TO APPEAR LARGER – A person squatting or bending over looks a lot like a four-legged prey animal. Raise your arms. Open your jacket, if you're wearing one. Throw stones, branches, or whatever you can grab without crouching down or turning your back. Wave your arms slowly and speak firmly in a large voice.
- DO NOT APPROACH A LION – Especially one that is feeding or with her kittens. Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation. Give them a way to escape.
- FIGHT BACK IF ATTACKED – Try to stay on your feet if a lion attacks you. Lions have been driven off by prey that fights back.