(KTLA) – Officers with the Santa Monica Mountains Nationwide Recreation Space in Malibu, California, stated Solstice Canyon was quickly closed after a younger mountain lion tried to assault a small, leashed canine strolling with its proprietor.
The encounter, in line with officers, occurred Tuesday morning. Whereas intervening to guard his canine, the hiker suffered a puncture wound and a scratch on his hand. The canine was unhurt.
“A scratch mainly, simply minor accidents,” Seth Riley, the wildlife department chief for the U.S. Nationwide Park Service, informed LAist. “He was capable of seize the canine and preserve the lion from capturing it.”
Nationwide Park Service rangers offered the hiker with first assist on the scene.
Out of an abundance of warning and since a second younger mountain lion was noticed within the quick space, officers closed the park till 8 a.m. Thursday whereas wildlife biologists examined the realm and assessed the scenario.
“Mountain lions are unpredictable, wild animals,” officers stated. “Whereas conflicts with people are uncommon, there may be all the time a danger when recreating in areas utilized by mountain lions.”
In case you encounter a mountain lion, specialists advocate that you simply:
- Make your self seem as giant and intimidating as doable by yelling, waving your arms and even throwing objects within the path of the animal.
- Slowly again away and permit area for the large cats to maneuver away.
- Don’t flip your again and run.
- The Nationwide Park Service requires pets to be on a leash now not than 6 toes always.
Extra info on avoiding encounters and coexisting with mountain lions may be discovered right here.
