On Wednesday in the Santa Monica Mountains, a hiker sustained injuries while protecting his dog from a potential attack by a pair of mountain lions, as reported by KCAL CBS Los Angeles.
The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area advised that a hiker with a small, leashed Chihuahua experienced an injury when a young mountain lion attempted to attack the dog. The hiker swiftly and successfully picked up his pet but incurred a puncture wound and a scratch on his hand. The dog remained unharmed.
Another young mountain lion was also reported to have been in the vicinity at the time.
Park closure following the mountain lion attack
As a result of this incident, park authorities temporarily closed the Solstice Canyon area for the rest of the day. It reopened at 8 a.m. the following day. Wildlife biologists were dispatched to evaluate the situation.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife did not plan any further intervention, stating that the area closure was primarily to allow the lions to leave the area and reduce the risk of additional conflicts, as explained in a statement by park officials on Facebook.
According to Beth Pratt of the National Wildlife Federation, “These two young mountain lions have recently separated from their mother, possibly P-80, who resides in that area. They might have been searching for a meal.”
Hikers are urged to exercise caution
Upon their return to the trails on Thursday, hikers admitted feeling a heightened sense of caution.
In the event of a mountain lion encounter while exploring the wilderness, recreationists are advised to make themselves appear as large and intimidating as possible by shouting, waving their arms, and even throwing objects in the direction of the animal. They should back away slowly and create space for the mountain lion to retreat, avoiding the instinct to turn and run. As for pets on the trail, it is recommended that they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.
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