Crime & Safety

Mountain Lions Seen Hopping Fences, Wandering Yards In Milpitas

Police shared videos of two mountain lion sightings reported on the same morning and urged neighbors to keep an eye out.

Home surveillance cameras spotted a mountain lion twice Wednesday morning in Milpitas, seen roughly two hours apart.
Home surveillance cameras spotted a mountain lion twice Wednesday morning in Milpitas, seen roughly two hours apart. (Courtesy of the Milpitas Police Department)

MILPITAS, CA — Two mountain lion sightings in a single day have Milpitas neighbors on edge and local authorities on the lookout.

In the first sighting, the Milpitas Police Department shared home surveillance footage of a mountain lion wandering through the Friendly Village Mobile Home Park around 2 a.m. Wednesday. Officers searched the area on foot and deployed a drone with thermal imaging but could not locate the feline.

Find out what's happening in Milpitasfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Two hours later, another 911 caller reported a mountain lion seen roaming through yards along Fairmeadow Way, police said. The department shared a high-quality video of the animal easily hopping over a tall gate.

Police asked neighbors to stay cautious, be mindful of their pets, and not hesitate to call 911 to report additional sightings.

Find out what's happening in Milpitasfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"Residents that live in and around the area, especially joggers and bicyclists, are advised to be alert and be cognizant of their surroundings," the department said. "If you have small pets, please consider bringing them indoors when unattended and always keep animals on a lead when out on a walk."

According to the police department, anyone who sees a mountain lion should neither approach nor run from the animal, as the latter can spur them to give chase. Instead, people should attempt to appear larger, wave their arms and use a firm voice, which can make a mountain lion consider them a danger and flee.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.