Peninsula Mountain Lion Sighting Reported

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — A mountain lion sighting was reported in San Mateo County early Monday morning, authorities said.

The big cat was seen by a resident walking their dog at around 2 a.m. near the intersection of Norfolk Drive and Lewis Lane, the Pacifica Police Department said.

The resident reported the sighting to police later in the day.

“The reporting party saw the animal, raised his hands and made loud noises, and the animal quickly ran off,” the agency wrote on its Facebook page.

Officers responded to the area but were unable to locate the animal.

“Pacifica is mountain lion country and sightings are not uncommon,” the agency said.

“We encourage residents to be aware of their surroundings and to always watch over their children and pets. It is important that we are aware of the wildlife throughout our city, in neighborhoods and parks and open space, and take steps to keep ourselves and family safe.”

Anyone who sees a wild animal is behaving aggressively is urged to call their local police agency.

Wild animal sightings may be reported to the California Department Fish and Wildlife’s wildlife incident reporting system.

Visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website for more information about living in mountain lion country.