California note
A mountain lion sighting calls for space and a calm report
CDFW guidance says not to run from a mountain lion: stay upright, face it, make noise, look larger, and give it an escape route.
Mountain lions live in many parts of California. That includes foothills, canyons, open-space edges, and places near neighborhoods. A sighting is worth attention. It does not need a panic story every time.
Never approach it. Give it an escape route. Keep pets leashed and bring small children close, but do not crouch or bend over. Do not run or turn your back. Face the lion, make noise, and try to look larger.
For a public-safety concern, call local law enforcement; for an emergency, call 911. A sighting can also be reported through CDFW’s Wildlife Incident Reporting system. Around a home, remove wildlife attractants, keep pet food inside, use secure covered animal shelters, and watch pets closely at dawn, dusk, and night.
Where to see it
CDFW human-wildlife conflict pages and local animal or public safety contacts.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 14, 2026
Current maps, alerts, conditions, and public safety guidance.
Conditions and public guidance can change quickly. Check the current page before you act.
Related notes
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Rattlesnake season is mostly about space and attention
Give rattlesnakes room; if someone is bitten, call 911 and do not use ice, cutting, suction, or a tourniquet.
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