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One Tustin family was in for quite the shock when they let their dog out in the morning and it chased a cat up a tree, according to the Tustin Police Department.
When they looked a little closer however, this wasn’t just any cat, but a California Mountain Lion!
A big thanks to California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Mission Viejo Animal Services, OC Animal Care, and the Orange County Fire Authority for their parts in bringing Monday’s “cat in a tree” call to a happy ending. The lion was safely sedated and handled by trained professionals and released at the the Cleveland National Forest.
Mountain lions can be dangerous and should never be approached.
The mountain lion population in Orange County is isolated to the Santa Ana Mountains and therefore have a lack of DNA diversity which is also a threat to the future of these animals, according to Orange County Outdoors.
Biologists with UC Davis estimate the population of mountains in Orange County at somewhere between 15-25 individuals.
To report sightings in Orange County, contact Orange County Animal Services at 714-935-6848 (after hours 714-259-1122) or the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 949-770-6011, according to the City of Lake Forest.
Do not attempt to capture or harm the animal—allow authorities to manage the situation.
Safety Recommendations:
- Avoid walking alone; bring a companion.
- Wear bright, contrasting clothing.
- Observe signs and trail postings.
- Avoid jogging or biking at dawn or dusk.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Supervise children and keep them close.
- Keep pets on a leash and indoors.
- Do not approach wildlife.
- If you see a mountain lion, appear large and do not crouch.
Mountain lions play a vital role in maintaining the ecosystem by controlling wildlife populations. Stay vigilant and report any encounters immediately.
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