Police capture mountain lion in California neighborhood

VISALIA, Calif. (KMPH) — A mountain lion was safely caught early Sunday morning in Visalia, California.

KMPH reports the Visalia Police Department was called out to the 1900 block of West Porter Avenue around 12:42 a.m. for reports of a possible mountain lion being spotted in the area.

When officers arrived, they say they searched the surrounding area and found a mountain lion in the 2000 block of West Sedona Avenue.

Officers were able to safely contain the animal without incident.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife was called out to the area where they were able to tranquilize and capture the mountain lion.

The animal was then transported to a proper wild habitat where it was safely released.

Wildlife officials offer the following tips:

Living with mountain lions

• Deer-proof your property to avoid attracting a lion's main food source.
• Remove dense vegetation from around the home to reduce hiding spaces.
• Install outdoor lighting to make it difficult for mountain lions to approach unseen.
• Secure livestock and outdoor large pets in sturdy, covered shelters at night.
• Always remember — Mountain lions are wild animals and their behavior may be unpredictable (like any wildlife).

Mountain lion encounters

• Do not hike, bike or jog alone, especially at dawn, dusk or nighttime.
• Stay alert on trails. Keep a close watch on small children and off-leash pets.
• Never approach a mountain lion. Give them an escape route.
• DO NOT RUN. Stay calm. Do not turn your back. Face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger.
• Do not crouch down or bend over.