Table of Contents
What to do if you see a mountain lion on the trail?
Hold your ground or back away slowly. Continue facing the mountain lion, and maintain eye contact. Do all you can to appear larger; Stand upright, raise your arms, raise your walking stick, open your jacket. If you have small children or pets with you, try to pick them up without turning away or bending over.
Should you run if you see a mountain lion?
Stay calm and avoid making any sudden movements that would startle the cat. Never run away from a lion because that might stimulate the cat’s instinct to chase and attack. Let the lion think you are afraid of it (because you are!) and that it is in charge of the situation.
How do you scare away mountain lions?
Do all you can to appear intimidating. Bang your hiking sticks together or clap your hands while yelling. If looking bigger doesn’t scare the mountain lion off, start throwing stones or branches in its direction–without crouching or turning your back.
What Animals Can you not out run?
10 North American Animals You Definitely Can’t Outrun and Why
- Brown bear. Maximum speed: 30 mph to 40 mph.
- Black bear. Maximum speed: 30 mph to 35 mph.
- Moose. Maximum speed: 30 mph to 35 mph.
- Elk. Maximum speed: 45 mph.
- Deer. Maximum speed for mule deer: 35 mph to 45 mph.
- Mountain Lion.
- Wolf.
- Caribou.
What should you do if you encounter a mountain lion?
Keep your eyes trained on the mountain lion so it knows you’re not prey, and slowly back away. Hopefully that’s enough to let you get away. If it attacks you, use whatever you can to fight back. Don’t play dead. The mountain lion will give up if you put up enough of a fight.
Should you use bear spray when camping with mountain lions?
It’s not necessary to be able to aim perfectly. Putting up a screen of spray between you and the mountain lion is often enough. Check the expiration date of your bear spray and make sure it’s EPA-approved. Never use bear spray like you would insect repellent. Do not spray it around your campsite before going to sleep.
Are Mountain Lions attracted to pets?
Pets can attract mountain lions into developed areas. If there are repeated sightings, be prepared to aggressively defend yourself and others. Be alert and on guard for the remainder of your hike.
What time of day are mountain lions most active?
Since deer are mountain lions’ favorite preys, they tend to be most active when deer are out in the open, which is usually at dawn and dusk. So, to avoid having to deal with a mountain lion, be extra careful when you are hiking on your trail within these time frames.