Mountain lion spotted in Almaden Sept. 23
By Barbara Luis
Staff Writer

Local wildlife experts are warning the public about a mountain lion spotted near a residential area last month in southwest Almaden Valley. Animal specialists with the Santa Clara County Vector Control office recently ordered the temporary posting of informational signs at the end of Capitancillos Drive just off of Coleman Road along Guadalupe Creek.

The warning signs posted by the Santa Clara Valley Water District show a picture of a mountain lion (also known as a cougar) and the date of the most recent sighting, back on Sept. 23. Under the date is the recommended reading on the subject called “Living with California Mountain Lions,” which can be ordered online at www.tfg.ca.gov/lions.

Water District officials also spell out the specific risk of walking or hiking in the area. The sign further reads “mountain lions may be present and are unpredictable. Be cautious. They have been known to attack without warning. Your safety cannot be guaranteed. You are advised to stay alert to potential danger.”

Although statistically it's not likely you'll cross paths with a mountain lion, your chances go up depending on where you live or where you roam. According to wildlife specialist Russ Parman of County Vector Control, our local hills are home to a vast array of wild animals. Mountain lions top the list, which also includes an assortment of poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes, deer, foxes and much more.

“My best guess is that this is a cougar that followed a path down to the creek to look for deer, which are its natural prey. We are getting reports that some people feed the deer, which sets them up for attack. It's important not to feed the deer, so they remain on the run for food and not gathering in a place accessible to their predators.”

Parman further explains that “as the cougars spend more time near residential areas looking for deer, there's an outside chance that they could also become acclimated to humans and begin to think of them as prey.”

If you do spot one of the big cats, Parman emphasizes that it's crucial not to run away because that makes you their instant prey. He says it's very important to first stand your ground and face the animal, then raise your arms above your head in order to appear larger and more fearsome. Make lots of noise, stamp your feet and don't look submissive. Once you've intimidated the animal, then slowly back away and head for safety. Lastly, it's important to call 9-1-1.

Always keep small children and pets under close watch, don't let them run off alone. While hiking, it's best to pair up, just in case.

Santa Clara Valley Water District representative Mike DiMarco says there have been no reported sightings since last month. “This is a beautiful area teeming with wildlife to see and enjoy. Remember… it's their home, too. It's important that we learn to live ‘with' them and protect their natural habitat while protecting ourselves, too.”