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HESPERIA, Calif. – A mountain lion was spotted and safely captured in the City of Hesperia on Saturday evening.

Mountain Lion perched up in the tree only feet from Hesperia homes
*Photos courtesy of California Department of Fish & Wildlife.*

The young 105-pound mountain lion was located perched in a tree around 50’ high in a neighborhood near Danbury and Temecula. “The homeowner had noticed the animal while working in the yard and immediately summoned authorities for help,” said San Bernardino County Fire Department Captain Jeff Allen. San Bernardino County Fire Department, Animal Control and Fish & Game responded to the scene.

The area was secured for the safety of both residents and the lion. The Department of Fish & Game were able to tranquilize the lion by around 4:20 p.m. Firefighters then used a ladder to access the lion to secure him into a rescue harness. The lion was lowered safely to the ground where the Fish & Wildlife biologist evaluated it. “Once the lion regained consciousness we ensured he safely returned to his suitable habitat,” Fischer says.

Typically, mountain lions are not dangerous to humans since they avoid interaction with humans. A mountain lion attack is extremely rare, according to the Mountain Lion Foundation. A human is more likely to drown in a bathtub, killed by a pet dog, or be hit by lightning. Humans should be aware that they should never corner a mountain lion or any other wild animal for that matter. “Leaving the lion in the tree would not have been safe for the community,” Fischer said.

Never run if you spot a mountain lion, make eye contact, stand tall, and do what is necessary to look larger than you are, like raising your arms over your head. Speak firmly and if necessary, throw items at the lion allowing time for the lion to leave.

Keeping your yard clear of dense vegetation will help make your home less lion-friendly. Mountain lions are not only located in the mountains, but they can also be located anywhere from sea level to mountain peaks. “It is common for young mountain lions to wander outside what some would consider normal habitat in an attempt to establish their territory,” says Fish & Wildlife biologist Kevin Brennan. Pets and livestock should be protected, mostly during the nighttime hours when mountain lions are most likely to do their hunting.

Residents are reminded to be vigilant of wildlife in Hesperia and surrounding communities. If a mountain lion, bear or other dangerous wildlife is spotted, do not approach, and call our Animal Control emergency line immediately at (760) 947-1707.