A mountain lion was tranquilized Friday morning in San Dimas, California, after being found lounging under a tree near Foothill Boulevard, prompting authorities to close nearby streets and urge residents to secure pets and outdoor food sources.
Officials respond to mountain lion sighting
Wildlife officials and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to Walnut Avenue, between Baseline Road and Allen Avenue, at 6:40 a.m. after reports of a mountain lion in the area. The animal was located just north of the 210 Freeway, sitting under a tree alongside Foothill Boulevard. Authorities established a perimeter and closed nearby streets as they attempted to safely relocate the animal.
Tranquilization succeeds after failed dart attempts
At 11:00 a.m., a wildlife official fired at least two tranquilizer darts at the mountain lion. The animal was struck by one dart but pulled it from its body with its mouth, chewing on it before spitting it out. Officials approached the sedated animal around 11:30 a.m. and completed the relocation process. Video footage from AIR7 showed the mountain lion wagging its tail intermittently during the standoff.
Authorities issue safety warnings
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s San Dimas Station urged residents to avoid the area until the animal was safely relocated. Authorities also advised residents to secure pets and remove outdoor food sources that could attract wildlife. Despite warnings, dozens of onlookers gathered to observe the incident.
Context: Mountain lion sightings in urban areas
Mountain lions, also known as pumas or cougars, occasionally enter residential areas in Southern California, particularly as urban development encroaches on their natural habitats. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) typically responds to such sightings to assess the animal’s condition and determine the safest course of action, which may include relocation or, in rare cases, euthanasia if the animal poses a significant threat.
The CDFW has not yet released details on the mountain lion’s health or the specific reason for its presence in the neighborhood. Officials confirmed the animal was not aggressive during the standoff and did not pose an immediate threat to residents.