Mountain Lion Sightings In Phoenix Lake Area Becoming More Regular

Courtesy Image

Sonora, CA — A resident of Hidden Valley Road in East Sonora is alerting neighbors nearby that her security camera has spotted mountain lions on three recent occasions.

Delia Rodrigues reports, “I know wildlife is very common in our area, but since I’ve lived here, I’ve never seen a mountain lion, and how frequent they keep coming to my home.”

She is letting people know so that they can be aware and has also contacted Gold Rush Charter School each time, which is also on Hidden Valley Road.

The mountain lion in the images (multiple or potentially the same one each time) has both climbed up an outside deck and been spotted walking near the bottom. The recorded sightings were on March 31, April 24, and May 2.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has released the following tips for both living with mountain lions and what to do if you encounter one:

Living With Mountain Lions

• When recreating outside, avoid hiking, biking, or jogging alone. Do not hike, bike, or jog at dawn, dusk, or at night.
• Deer-proof your property to avoid attracting a lion’s main food source.
• Remove dense vegetation from around the home to reduce hiding spaces.
• Install outdoor lighting to make it difficult for mountain lions to approach unseen.
• Secure livestock and outdoor large pets in sturdy, covered shelters at night.
• Always remember – Mountain lions are wild animals and their behavior may be unpredictable (like any wildlife).

Mountain Lion Encounters

• Stay alert on trails.  Keep pets leashed and walk with small children, don’t let them run ahead.
• Never approach a mountain lion. Give them an escape route.
• DO NOT RUN. Stay calm. Do not turn your back.
• Face the animal, make loud noise and try to look bigger. If with small children, put them on your shoulders.
• Do not crouch down or bend over.