Mountain lions tend to follow their prey and during the winter deer start coming out of the mountains to populated areas. This can lead to more encounters with cougars and the Division of Wildlife Resources has further tips to keep you safe. First, STOP! Do not run from a cougar, neither approach it. Pick up children and pets while maintaining constant eye contact. Stand up tall and make yourself look bigger by raising your arms above your head. Avoid crouching or squatting. Speak loudly in a firm voice while backing away slowly to leave the area. If you’re attacked, protect your head and neck and fight back. If you can be aggressive enough with the cougar it will probably flee.
