BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Idaho Fish and Game have received multiple reports this week, September 12 through the 14th, of a mountain lion in Garden City and West Boise neighborhoods.
Two residential doorbell cameras captured footage of the animal, allowing Fish and G officials to confirm it was a mountain lion.
Wildlife managers do not believe there is a risk to public safety at this time.
“This mountain lion was behaving as we would expect it to appear to travel through the area at night or the early morning hours, avoiding people, and not causing any conflicts that we are aware of,” said Regional Conservation Officer Matt O’Connell. “When we have wildlife show up in urban settings like this, the ideal situation is that the animal moves on to a more suitable area on its own without conflict.”
No further reports of the animal have been received since the 14th. Fish and Game asks that area residents stay vigilant and report any mountain lion sightings in the area by calling the Southwest Region office at
208-465-8465, or 208-854-8954 after business hours.
Personal Safety:
Wildlife managers agree that if a person is in close proximity to a lion, meaning they see it, they should:
NEVER run away from a mountain lion. The lion’s instinct is to chase and ultimately catch what they perceive as a potential prey.
NEVER turn your back on a lion. Always face them while making yourself look as large as you can. Yell loudly, but don’t scream. A high-pitched scream may mimic the sound of a wounded animal.
SLOWLY back away while maintaining eye contact with the lion.
Safety equipment you may choose to carry could include bear spray, a noise device, like an air-horn, and if you walk in the dark, a very bright flashlight.
If you are attacked, fight back!
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