Full Notification

On 2-14-18, at approximately 2 AM, A San Mateo resident saw a large animal, believed to be a mountain loin, walking in the open space of LaurelWood Park (behind the 900 block of Viewridge Drive). The witness reported that the animal never acted predatory or aggressive and was in their natural habitat. Officers conducted a thorough area check, but could not locate the animal. We wanted to take this opportunity to remind you and your family of some safety tips:
 

PLEASE REMEMBER THESE SAFETY TIPS REGARDING MOUNTAIN LIONS

While again it would be rare for a mountain lion to approach humans, you can follow a few simple rules to keep you and your family safe:

· Do not feed deer.  It is illegal in California and it will attract mountain lions.

· If you see a mountain lion DO NOT APPROACH IT, especially one that is feeding or with offspring. Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation.

· Avoid hiking or jogging through wooded areas when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, or at night.

· Keep a close watch on small children when hiking or traveling in or about wooded areas.

· If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children. · For more information about mountain lions click here www.keepmewild.org

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MOUNTAIN LIONS PLEASE GO TO THE WEBSITE FOR THE FROM CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FISH & WILDLIFE:  https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/