A mountain lion sighting in San Francisco prompted a swift response from Animal Care and Control on Saturday night after the big cat was reported moving through the city.
The animal, considered an apex predator, was believed to be hiding in a tree near Fell and Baker streets when city animal control officers arrived in the Panhandle area, close to Golden Gate Park.
The first report came from a person walking a dog, who noticed the mountain lion climb into a tree with thick foliage that gave it plenty of cover. San Francisco Animal Care and Control issued its initial public alert at about 9:10 p.m. on Sept. 5.
“If you see the mountain lion, slowly back away, do not run. Call Animal Care & Control at 415-554-9400 or 911 in a life safety emergency,” the agency said in its alert.
Officials blocked off the northeast edge of the Panhandle and closed Fell Street between Broderick and Central as crews searched the area. Later Saturday night, authorities used a drone and lights to scan the tree canopy, but the mountain lion was not seen.
Krysten Kellum, a spokesperson for the Department of Fish and Wildlife, confirmed that wardens never located the animal and said it may have left the area before response teams arrived, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Authorities also reminded residents how to respond if they come across a mountain lion: back away slowly, keep dogs leashed, pick up small children and never run.
If the animal approaches, authorities advise making yourself look as large as possible by waving your arms, shouting and throwing objects toward it.
Residents who spot the mountain lion are urged to contact Animal Care & Control directly at 415-554-9400, or to call 911 immediately if facing a life-safety emergency.
