Mountain Lion Kills Goats In Sonora
Sonora, CA – Sonora police have confirmed that a mountain lion is responsible for killing two goats off of Bald Mountain Road in Sonora.
The owner of the goats says traps are going to be set up tonight. Usually when the Department of Fish and Game is notified of a threat they issue a depredation permit. When personal property, including livestock, is damaged the permit gives the county authorization to trap and euthanize the animal responsible.
Residents are encouraged to keep goats, sheep and even cattle in a barn or enclosure with a top at night to discourage Mountain Lions. Wildlife officials have said that mountain lions are more likely to go for easier food sources given the dry conditions.
In the past the Calaveras Sheriff has advised residents to be aware of their surroundings when walking with young children and pets, especially at night, as they can be prey to bears or cougars. They said if you do have a sighting, walk away from the animal slowly, do not antagonize it, and call police.
Last week, near the Silicon Valley city of Cupertino, a 6-year-old boy was injured by a mountain lion. According to the Associated Press DNA testing on a 74-pound, 2-year-old mountain lion killed recently in the area confirms that it was the cat that attacked the boy. Wildlife officials said the tests also showed the animal did not have rabies or any other diseases.
