Mountain Lion Sighting on Campus

Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 3:00pm

TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police, Sonoma State Police Department
 
There was a sighting on campus last night of a mountain lion walking from the area near the softball field, on Juniper Lane, towards Petaluma Hill Road. Sonoma State police officers checked the site but did not locate the mountain lion. 
 
In an abundance of caution, we are informing the campus community about this report, to ensure everyone who is present on campus is safe and vigilant. If you spot a mountain lion on campus, walk away and leave the area. DO NOT run or approach the animal. If a mountain lion approaches you, stay calm, face the animal, make noise and try to make yourself appear larger by waving your arms or putting your arms over your head. 
 
Please notify the Sonoma State Police Department when you are in a safe location and tell them where you saw the mountain lion. Visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for more information on what to do if you encounter a mountain lion.  
 
Sonoma State Police offers safety escorts for any member of the campus community 24/7. Safety escorts may be requested by calling the Sonoma State Police non-emergency line at (707) 664-4444. 
 
As a reminder, if you are ever in immediate or imminent danger, dial or text 911 for emergency response at any time.