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A female mountain lion and her cubs were sighted on campus last week.

The mountain lion and her cubs have been sighted several times in recent weeks near the Switching Station #6 construction site on the western side of Stern Hall, most recently on Thursday, according to a UCPD Safety Alert.

According to the alert, there were several sightings of mountain lions last year in the hills above campus. Signs of their presence were also evidenced by the discovery of animal carcasses.

The alert states that deer are a major food source for mountain lions, and that a doe and two fawns were spotted nearby during Thursday’s siting.

UCPD recommends the following to reduce chances of encountering or being attacked by a mountain lion:

To reduce the chances of encountering a mountain lion:

• Avoid hiking alone, especially between dusk and dawn, when lions normally do their hunting. Make plenty of noise while you hike so as to reduce the chances of surprising a lion.
• Always keep children in sight while hiking and within arm’s reach in areas that can conceal a lion. Mountain Lions seem to be drawn to children.
• Hike with a good walking stick; this can be useful in warding off a lion.

To reduce the chances of an attack when encountering a mountain lion:

• Do not approach a lion, especially if it is feeding or with its young. Most lions will avoid confrontation. Give them a way to escape.
• Stay calm and face the lion. Do not run because this may trigger the lion’s instinct to attack. Try to appear larger by raising your hands.
• Pick up small children so they don’t panic and run. This will also make you appear larger. Avoid bending over or crouching.
• If the lion acts aggressively, throw rocks, branches, or whatever can be obtained without turning your back or bending over.
• Fight back if attacked. Since a mountain lion usually tries to bite the head or neck, try to remain standing and face the attacking animal. People have successfully fought back with rocks, sticks or bare hands.

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Adelyn Baxter is the news editor.

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