A mountain lion was seen in Mission Viejo, and animal control officers were tracking it near the reported vicinity, the city of Mission Viejo said in a notification to residents on Saturday evening.
Mission Viejo Animal Services confirmed the mountain lion sighting, which was spotted by a person on a trail at 2:30 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of Los Alisos Boulevard and Via Noveno in Mission Viejo.
Saturday’s city statement said that officers are tracking movements and posting signs near the sighting. As of Sunday afternoon, no additional sightings had been reported, Mission Viejo Animal Services Director Michelle Claud-Clemente said.
The city said the Orange County Sheriff’s Department is aware of the sighting, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is also monitoring the situation.
“Mountain lions help maintain order in our ecosystem and assist to keep other wildlife numbers in check,” Saturday’s city statement said.
“They do not typically prey on domestic animals unless an opportunity arises,” the city said. “These cats are solitary and elusive and usually avoid humans as much as possible.”
The city provided wild animal safety tips:
- Be aware.
- Don’t walk alone, bring a friend.
- Wear bright and highly contrasting clothing.
- Watch for signs and trail postings.
- Avoid jogging or mountain biking in low light conditions at dusk and dawn.
- Stay on the trail.
- Supervise children and keep them within arm’s reach.
- Keep pets on a secure leash.
- Keep pets indoors.
- Don’t approach any wild animal.
- Give wildlife the time and space to steer clear of you.
- Try to look as large as possible, and do not crouch down if you see a mountain lion.
Anyone with information regarding mountain lion sightings can contact Mission Viejo Animal Services at 949-470-3045 or the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 949-770-6011.
