WHAT IF YOU LIVE IN LION COUNTRY?

Current range of Mountain Lions in California

Now that people and mountain lions occupy so much of the same geographical areas in California, encounters are expected to increase. If you live in mountain lion habitat, here's what you can do to reduce your chances of encountering a mountain lion near your home:

• DON'T FEED WILDLIFE: By feeding deer, raccoons or other wildlife in your yard, you will inadvertently attract mountain lions, which prey upon them.
• DEER-PROOF YOUR LANDSCAPE: Avoid using plants that deer prefer to eat; if your landscaping attracts deer, mountain lions may be close by. The California Department of Fish and Game has a brochure entitled "Gardening To Discourage Deer Damage" available at most Department offices.
• LANDSCAPE FOR SAFETY: Remove dense and/or low-lying vegetation that would provide good hiding places for mountain lions, especially around children's play areas; make it difficult for mountain lions to approach your yard unseen.
• INSTALL OUTDOOR LIGHTING: Keep the perimeter of your house well lit at night--especially along walkways--to keep any approaching mountain lions visible.
• KEEP PETS SECURE: Roaming pets are easy prey for hungry mountain lions. Either bring pets inside or keep them in a kennel with a secure top. Don't feed pets outside; this can attract raccoons and other mountain lion prey.
• KEEP LIVESTOCK SECURE: Where practical, place livestock in enclosed sheds and barns at night, and be sure to secure all outbuildings.
• KEEP CHILDREN SAFE: Keep a close watch on children whenever they play outdoors. Make sure children are inside before dusk and not outside before dawn. Talk with children about mountain lions and teach them what to do if they encounter one. This website provides practical advice.

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