‘Be alert’: Mountain lion possibly spotted in Antioch

(KRON) — A mountain lion was possibly spotted in Antioch, Antioch Animal Services (AAS) announced Thursday in a Facebook post. Officials said the animal was likely in the area of Blue Curl Court and Bluebell Circle.

Officials are alerting Antioch residents as there have been multiple mountain lion sightings over the past few years. The areas in which the animal was spotted were in Harbor Park, Sutter Delta Hospital on Lone Tree Way and in the vicinity of Danridge Court near the De Anza Trail, according to AAS.

“If you live, work, or play in cat country, be alert,” AAS said. “Avoid walking alone between dusk and dawn when lions are most active. Keep your children and pets close to you.”

AAS gave a few tips on what to do if you encounter a mountain lion. The agency also advises dog owners to never have their pets off-leash on trails or in public parks within city limits.

If you live, work, or play in cat country, 𝐛𝐞 𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐭! Avoid walking alone between dusk and dawn when lions are most active. Keep your children and pets close to you.

𝐍𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 approach or corner a mountain lion (or any wild animal). If you do encounter a mountain lion, 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐏. 𝐃𝐎 𝐍𝐎𝐓 𝐑𝐔𝐍. Unlike safety advice for encountering bears, do not act timid or play dead in front of a cat. Do not scream or use a high pitched voice.

𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝: Maintain eye contact. Stand tall. Look bigger by opening your coat or raising your arms. Slowly wave your arms and speak firmly in a monotone. Throw items at the lion if necessary. Give the cat room and time to move on.

If there is a mountain lion attack, officials urge you to call 911. Mountain lion sightings or general concerns can also be reported to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

“These big cats tend to move very stealthily through our City thanks to the multiple trails/easements that crisscross all throughout Antioch,” officials said.

​(KRON) — A mountain lion was possibly spotted in Antioch, Antioch Animal Services (AAS) announced Thursday in a Facebook post. Officials said the animal was likely in the area of Blue Curl Court and Bluebell Circle. Officials are alerting Antioch residents as there have been multiple mountain lion sightings over the past few years. The […]