Mountain Lions on the Prowl: A Closer Look at Recent Encounters

In the vast wilderness of Colorado, mountain lions are a part of the landscape, but recent events have put them in the spotlight.

Tragic Encounters

• New Year's Day Tragedy: A hiker's life was tragically cut short, with authorities suspecting a mountain lion attack.
• Close Call in November: Gary Messina, a local runner, found himself face-to-face with a mountain lion. He managed to fend off the animal using his phone, a stick, and some quick thinking.

Official Response

Wildlife officials have been working to address the situation:

• Tracked and Euthanized: Two mountain lions in the area.
• Ongoing Search: Plans to examine them for any signs of disease.
• Trail Closures: Nearby trails remain closed for safety reasons.

Mountain Lions in Colorado

• Habitat: The area provides an ideal habitat for these predators, with its remote location, dense forests, and varied terrain.
• Population: The state is home to an estimated 3,800 to 4,400 of these big cats.
• Role in Ecosystem: They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of wildlife populations.

Safety Tips

For those venturing into mountain lion territory, it's essential to stay informed and take precautions:

• Travel in Groups
• Keep Children Close
• Avoid Dawn and Dusk
• In Case of Encounter:
• Maintain eye contact
• Make yourself appear larger
• Back away slowly
• Avoid running