Authorities on Thursday night announced they had received several calls reporting a mountain lion near Interstate 80 in central Roseville.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has been notified of the sightings, officials said in a Facebook post by the Roseville Police Department and the Roseville Parks, Recreation and Events.
Officials said encountering a mountain lion is a rare event, but this is not the first time mountain lions have been spotted in Roseville.
“Please remember that mountain lion attacks are extremely rare — you are statistically 1,000 times more likely to be struck by lightning,” Roseville officials said in Thursday’s announcement. “As an added precaution, we want to inform our community of the sightings and provide a few tips.”
To reduce your chance of an encounter with a mountain lion:
▪ Avoid hiking, biking, walking or running alone.
▪ Do not hike, walk, bike or run at dawn, dusk or night.
▪ Keep children close and under adult supervision.
▪ Keep pets leashed.
▪ Carry a walking stick.
If you encounter a mountain lion at close range:
▪ Stop. Do not run, stay calm.
▪ Pick up small children and put them on your shoulders.
▪ Do not crouch down or bend over.
▪ Stand upright, maintain eye contact and back away slowly.
▪ Be assertive. If approached wave your arms above your head and speak firmly or shout.
▪ Never approach a mountain lion and give them an escape route.
▪ If attacked. fight aggressively.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife receives hundreds of calls each year, and very few result in a mountain lion being deemed an imminent threat, Roseville officials said. Mountain lions are a protected species, and the Roseville sightings have occurred in green, open spaces, which is natural habitat for mountain lions.
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
