[pct-l] Mountain Lions

[bmclaughlin at bigplanet.com (Brian McLaughlin)]

Mountain lions are alpha predators. They tend to
specialize in killing deer, but there is no reason why
they will not turn to other prey if deer are not
available. Luckily, deer are quite plentiful in most
places, which tends to cut back on the pressure
for Mountain lions to seek other prey.

There is a tendency for animal populations to rise 
up to and a bit beyond the level of available food.
his means that, without other checks or obstacles,
excess mountain lion populations will no doubt start
spilling into human-populated areas. In those areas
deer won't be very available, so the lions will be
pressured to find new prey.

No predator likes to tackle prey they think will
hurt them badly. They like prey that is weaker
or smaller. This is good news for most adult humans
and potentially bad news for domestic animals,
pets, children and small adults who come to the
attention of lions who are seeking non-deer prey.

The bottom line in meeting a mountain lion is not
whether they have "lost their fear of humans", but
far more important will be whether they are hungry,
having a hard time finding their more usual prey in
the vicinity, and you don't look too tough or scary
for them to take on.

The only factor of those three you have any control
over is how tough or scary you act. If a lion comes
near you (that you know about) act aggressive, loud
and scary. Act strong, BIG, and healthy. Act ready
to fight. Then leave slowly, but at once. This is the
best available advice. No advice is foolproof.