On November 8, 2011, at 2:50 p.m., a resident in the 1200 block of Verdugo Spring Lane observed what they thought was a mountain lion walk up their driveway, around their house, and into the back yard. The mountain lion was last seen walking up a slope to the rear of the residence. The resident took photographs of the mountain lion and, after viewing the photographs, an animal control officer confirmed it was, in fact, a mountain lion.
Mountain lions are typically quiet, solitary animals that avoid people. Â Although more mountain lion sightings have been reported recently, it is important that residents practice the following precautions provided by the California Department of Fish and Game:
- Do not feed deer; it is illegal in California and it will attract mountain lions.
- Trim brush to reduce hiding places for mountain lions.
- Don’t allow pets outside when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, and at night.
- Bring pet food inside to avoid attracting raccoons, opossums, and other potential mountain lion prey.
- Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended.
- Install motion-sensitive lighting around the house.
- Do not hike, bike, or jog alone.
- Avoid hiking or jogging when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, and at night.
- Do not approach a mountain lion.
- If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children.
- If attacked, fight back.
- If a mountain lion attacks a person, immediately call 911.
In the event that you see a mountain lion please contact the Burbank Police Department directly at (818) 238-3000 or for more information regarding mountain lions call (818) 238-3290.
