While we may be accustomed to bears in the surrounding area, a new addition has made its appearance—a mountain lion. A resident near Truckee glanced out her window and caught a glimpse of the lion meandering down the hill. Wildlife officials from both California and Nevada agree that it is, indeed, a mountain lion. Recent studies confirm that mountain lions have been migrating from the Great Basin into the Sierra Nevada. Mule deer are attractive prey for the lion and have remained in the area due to a lack of snow rather than migrate to their winter range. Janice Mackey, a representative of the Department of Fish & Wildlife, soothes residents with the knowledge that “the animals are quiet, solitary and elusive, and they typically avoid people.” What to do if you see one? Watch it from a safe distance, and never approach. If you are attacked, fight back!
To read the complete article, click on the Sierra Sun link.
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