Mountain Lion Spotted In Santa Cruz

SANTA CRUZ, CA — An adult mountain lion was spotted Tuesday in Santa Cruz.

The big cat has been spotted in Westside Santa Cruz, in the area of Mission and Bay streets, according to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. It was seen near the north end of the Neary Lagoon early Tuesday morning.

The public is asked to keep pets indoors at night, and use caution when in the area of the lagoon and follow basic safety measures if a mountain lion is spotted, the animal shelter said.

Do not turn your back to the animal or run if the animal is standing, facing you or acting aggressively, the animal shelter said. This could prompt a chase. Instead, yell, shout, make loud noises and maintain eye contact as you slowly back away. Throw stones, branches or other items at the animal if necessary, the shelter said.

Call 911 if you feel you are in danger.

If a mountain lion is calm, lying down or turned away from you, back away slowly and report the sighting to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife from a safe distance, the shelter said. Report the sighting here or by calling 866-945-3911.