Spot a Mountain Lion on the Trail? Here Are Some Survival Tips

A mountain biker riding near Telluride, Colorado recently came across a mountain lion on the trail. The San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office shared a few details about the incident, saying it’s likely the mountain biker startled the wild cat, which did not attack the man.

The Sheriff’s Office used this anecdote to share some tips for other people who recreate in mountain-lion territory. What should you do—and what should you not do—when you encounter a mountain lion on the trail?

[RELATED: Brown Bear Attacks Mountain Biker on Trail in Alaska]

According to the San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office, if you see a mountain lion on the trail, you should:

• Stop and stay calm
• Maintain eye contact
• Make yourself look bigger:
  • Raise your arms
  • Open your jacket
  • Stand tall
  • Speak firmly and loudly
• Slowly back away, giving the animal a route to escape
• Keep children close and pick them up without bending over or turning your back

Notably, you should NOT run. “Running may trigger a chase response,” the Sheriff’s Office says.

If the mountain lion acts aggressively, you should fight back using whatever tools you have at your disposal, including trekking poles, sticks, knives, or even your own two fists. Continue to make yourself appear as large as possible, and use bear spray, if you have it.

You should NOT crouch down or play dead.

How to Prevent a Mountain-Lion Attack

The San Miguel County Sheriff’s Office further provides tips for preventing a mountain-lion attack. Best practices include hiking with a group, making noise while hiking (especially when turning blind corners), avoiding the times of day when mountain lions are most active (dawn, dusk, and night), and carrying bear spray.

Header stock image by Cavan Images/Getty Images

Best Bear (and Mountain Lion) Sprays

• SABRE Frontiersman MAX Bear and Mountain Lion Attack Deterrent
• Counter Assault Bear Deterrant Spray
• UDAP Pepper Power Bear Spray
• Mace Brand Bear Spray
• UDAP Griz Guard Bear Pepper Spray

Learn more about bear sprays here.

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