Mountain Lion Attack Believed To Have Killed Deer

MORGAN HILL, CA — A deer carcass led the authorities on the path of a mountain lion killing in Morgan Hill, the first reported for the year.

Morgan Hill Police responded to a report on Tuesday of a found deer carcass on Fountain Oaks Drive, bringing the area's Animal Services Officer on the scene to meet with the resident and examine the small deer body.

From there, the California Department of Fish and Game was also notified of the incident.

Bite marks and injuries located on the carcass were consistent with those found in a mountain lion attack.

The police department is working with Fish and Game on how to best to address this situation.

Officers are encouraging the community to report all mountain lion sightings. Since many areas surrounding Morgan Hill are considered a mountain lion habitat, it is important to recognize that there are steps everyone can take for the safety of families and their pets.

First, it's advisable to avoid interacting with mountain lions.

Also:

• Do not hike alone.
• Keep children close to you and within your sight at all times.
• Give them a way to escape.
• As tempting as it is, do not run from a mountain lion since it's an innate tendency for it to chase.
• If you see one, make eye contact.
• If you have small children with you, pick them up if possible, so they do not panic and run.
• Do not crouch down or bend over as studies have shown you will appear as a cat’s prey.
• Do all you can to appear larger since this gesture would make you the alpha animal.
• Fight back if attacked, otherwise, a bite to the neck may be lethal.

The Morgan Hill Police Department asks that all encounters be reported immediately to 408-779-2101. Questions may be fielded through Morgan Hill Animal Services Officer Jared Huddleston at 408-779-2101 or via the California Department of Fish and Game at 831-649-2070 or by visiting www.dfg.ca.gov.

Anyone with additional information related to this incident is encouraged to contact Detective Sergeant Bill Norman 669-253-4982