City of Manitou Springs warns of mountain lion activity
Jan 17, 2025
(MANITOU SPRINGS)—The City of Manitou Springs is urging everyone who lives, works, and visits the city to stay informed, as mountain lion activity was observed on local trails as recently as Thursday, Jan. 16.
Mountain lion presence is not uncommon in areas where urban and wildland environments intersect, such as Manitou Springs. The City says there is even evidence of a predator-prey interaction in December.
FOX21 News viewer Mike Ramberg sent video of a large mountain lion walking near his home on Keithley Road in Manitou Springs:
To ensure community safety, the city encourages residents to familiarize themselves with the best practices for living alongside these predators, such as preventing them from entering their property and protecting pets and children.
Some tips the City is suggesting include:
Not feeding deer: This action is not only illegal but can attract mountain lions to your property as deer are their primary food source.
Eliminate hiding spots: Remove overgrown bushes, tall grass, and other areas that can serve as hiding spots for mountain lions.
Install motion-detecting lights: This type of lighting can deter wildlife from approaching your property at night.
Focus on prevention.
Community members should also take extra precautions to safeguard pets and children. The City says to always monitor pets when outdoors and keep them on a leash.
As for children, keeping them nearby and not letting them get too far while letting them explore or play outdoors is the best practice when around areas where mountain lion activity has been reported.
Some signs of aggression in mountain lions include crouching, tail twitching, ears forward, eyes locked on an individual, feet positioned underneath their body, and hind feet pumping in preparation to jump.
If you come face-to-face with a mountain lion, follow these steps:
Stay in groups and make noise to avoid surprising a lion.
Carry a sturdy walking stick and keep children close.
Give them space. Never approach a feeding mountain lion or one with kittens.
Remain calm and move slowly. Avoid running as it could trigger a chase response.
Appear larger: Raise your arms, open your jacket, and pick up small children or pets.
Take action if threatened, throw objects, wave your arms, and speak firmly.
Fight back and use rocks, sticks, jackets, garden tools, or your bare hands to defend yourself. People have successfully fought off mountain lions using these methods.
"The safety of our community is a top priority," the City wrote. "Residents are encouraged to report mountain lion sightings to Colorado Parks and Wildlife and to exercise caution when exploring trails and outdoor spaces."