Mountain Lion spotted in Gardnerville Ranchos neighborhood, how to stay safe
A mountain lion was spotted in the Gardnerville Ranchos neighborhood Thursday afternoon which was a little too close to comfort for residents.
Resident Lindsay McLaughlin snapped these photos of the mountain lion in the neighborhood located behind Jethros. She said it sat on the ledge in the photo for an hour, and that the authorities were called.
If you see a mountain lion in a residential area, report it to the Nevada Department of Wildlife dispatch line at 775-688-1331.
Remember these important safety tips courtesy of the Nevada Department of Wildlife:
Do not approach a lion, especially one that is feeding or with kittens. Most mountain lions will try to avoid a confrontation.
Do NOT run away from it or corner it — give it space to leave. Back away slowly if you can do so safely — running may stimulate the ‘chase instinct’ that many predators have.
Do all that you can to appear larger. Raise your arms. Open your jacket if you’re wearing one. If you have small children with you, protect them by picking them up so they won’t panic and run.
If the lion is aggressive, throw stones, branches, or whatever you can get your hands on without crouching down or turning your back. Wave your arms slowly and speak firmly. What you want to do is convince the lion you are not prey and that you may be a danger to the lion.
In the rare event of an attack — ALWAYS fight back. Lions have been driven away by prey that fights back. People have fought back with rocks, sticks, caps or jackets, garden tools, and their bare hands successfully. Remain standing or try to get back up!