How to Keep Mountain Lions Away While Hiking
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are majestic and elusive creatures that can occasionally be encountered while hiking in their natural habitat. While sightings are rare, it’s essential to know how to prevent attracting them and what to do in case of an encounter. Hikers can minimize the risk posed by these large cats by following some simple and effective measures.
Understanding mountain lion behavior is crucial for staying safe on the trails. These predators usually avoid humans, but certain factors may increase the likelihood of an encounter. Maintaining awareness of your surroundings and employing preventative strategies can significantly reduce the chances of coming across a mountain lion. In this article, we will discuss various techniques that can help keep mountain lions away and ensure your hiking experience remains enjoyable and secure.
Understanding Mountain Lion Behavior
Territory and Habitat
Mountain lions are solitary animals and establish their territories in habitats with sufficient prey, water, and cover. They usually roam a wide area, which can range from 30 to over 300 square miles, and are found in various environments, including mountains, forests, and deserts.(source)
Hunting Patterns
These big cats are most active at dawn and dusk, known as the crepuscular period(source). Mountain lions are ambush predators that rely on stealth and strength to overpower their prey. Their diet mainly consists of deer, but they are also known to hunt smaller animals such as coyotes, raccoons, and rodents.
Signs of Presence
When hiking, look out for signs indicating the presence of mountain lions in the area. Among these can be tracks or prints, scat, and scratches on trees or rocks(source). Observing these indications in the environment can help you stay alert and be prepared for a potential encounter.
By understanding mountain lion behavior and recognizing signs of their presence in the area, hikers can implement safety measures to reduce the risk of an encounter and be prepared for a possible sighting.
Preparation and Planning
Selecting Trails and Timing
When planning your hiking trip, research the trails and choose those that are less frequented by mountain lions. This can be achieved by checking local park websites and guides for information about the presence of these predators. Also, consider the time of your hike. Since mountain lions are most active during dawn, dusk, and night, it’s helpful to avoid hiking during these times when possible.
Hiking Gear and Essentials
Packing the right gear can help you stay safe while hiking in mountain lion territory. Some essential items include:
- Whistle: A loud whistle can be used to scare away mountain lions if one gets too close.
- Walking stick: A sturdy walking stick can be used to make yourself look larger and more menacing if you encounter a mountain lion.
- Bear spray: Although it is designed for bears, bear spray can also deter an aggressive mountain lion.
- Bright clothing: Wearing bright colored clothing makes you more visible, reducing the chances of surprising a mountain lion.
In addition to these items, always carry a map, compass, first-aid kit, and plenty of water and food. Being well-prepared ensures that you can focus on enjoying your hike while taking precautions to avoid unexpected encounters with mountain lions.
Hiking Best Practices
Group Hiking and Communication
Hiking in groups is an effective way to keep mountain lions from approaching, as they are less likely to target larger groups of people. Experienced hikers in the group can also help identify signs of mountain lion activity on the trail and ensure that everyone stays vigilant and informed. It is also essential to maintain open communication among the group members and coordinate efforts in case of a mountain lion encounter. Communicate any suspicious activity or signs to the rest of the group immediately.
Trail Etiquette and Noise
When hiking in mountain lion territory, it is helpful to make noise as you move along the trail. This can deter mountain lions by letting them know that humans are nearby. Some ways to create noise include talking loudly, singing, clapping your hands, or even using a speaker to play music (source). While making noise is important, it is also crucial to respect other hikers on the trail and the surrounding environment. Maintain a balance between creating noise as a deterrent and not disturbing other trail users or wildlife.
Handling Encounters
In the rare event that you encounter a mountain lion, it is crucial to follow certain safety guidelines. Do not run or bend over, as this may trigger a chase response. Instead, hold your ground, make yourself appear larger by raising your arms, and speak loudly to assert your presence (source). If you have trekking poles or pepper spray, prepare them for use in case the mountain lion approaches. Back away slowly while maintaining eye contact, and ensure that everyone in the group is aware of the situation and participating in the deterrence efforts.
If You Encounter a Mountain Lion
Despite taking precautions, you may still come across a mountain lion during your hike. In these situations, knowing how to respond and taking the appropriate measures can help to keep you safe.
How to React
Firstly, it is important to not panic or run. Running may trigger the mountain lion’s predatory instincts. Instead, maintain eye contact with the mountain lion and exhibit a strong, confident demeanor. Advnture recommends looking directly at the animal and keeping it engaged, as turning your head may signal that you are fleeing.
Slowly back away without turning your back on the mountain lion, and KGAdventures advises to avoid bending over or crouching down. Keep your children close and never approach the animal.
Defensive Measures
As you back away, try to make yourself look as big as possible. Wave your arms, hold up your backpack, or use sticks to increase your size. This may help intimidate the mountain lion and make it less likely to attack.
If you have bear spray available, be ready to use it if the mountain lion approaches, as it is also effective on mountain lions. The HikingGuy website suggests using any available items, such as sticks or your pack, to appear more threatening.
After the Encounter
Once you’ve successfully retreated from the mountain lion, make sure to report your sighting to the appropriate authorities, such as park rangers or wildlife agencies, to help ensure the safety of other hikers in the area.
Keep in mind that mountain lion encounters are rare, and by following the aforementioned tips and suggestions, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of an unpleasant encounter while hiking.
