Fall may bring pumpkin patches, crisp hikes, and cozy coffee runs—but it also brings wildlife a little closer to our backyards. And lately, the Sierra foothills have been buzzing with headlines about aggressive mountain lion sightings in surrounding counties. El Dorado County saw incidents spike from about 33 a year to more than 200 sightings in 2024, including attacks on livestock, pets, and even a fatal human encounter. Closer to home, a mountain lion attacked and killed a dog in Downieville this January, and one was spotted near a school in Loyalton.

So what does that mean for Nevada County? It means awareness and preparedness. Whether you’re hiking our trails, enjoying your backyard, or grabbing that sunrise jog, here are clear, practical safety tips every family should know.

Mountain Lions Around the Home

If you spot—or suspect—a mountain lion near your property:

Don’t invite deer to dinner.
Deer attract lions, so remove bird feeders and avoid landscaping that draws them in.

Light up the night.
Motion-activated lights and clear vegetation reduce hiding spots.

Protect pets and livestock.
Bring pets indoors at night and secure goats, chickens, or other animals in strong enclosures.

Report serious encounters.
Contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) if you’ve had a close call or livestock loss.

Report mountain lion or other wildlife encounters here

What To Do If You Encounter a Mountain Lion While Hiking

Mountain lions are naturally shy, but encounters can happen—especially when we step into their territory.
If you see one:

Stay calm.
Do not run or turn your back—running can trigger a chase.

Make yourself look big.
Raise your arms, open your jacket, and stand tall.

Use your voice.
Speak firmly, loudly, and confidently. Shout things like, “No!” or “Stay Back!” much like you would at an aggressive dog.

Keep kids and pets close.
Don’t let them run ahead on the trail.

If attacked, FIGHT BACK.
Protect your head and neck, and use anything you can—sticks, rocks, even bare hands. People who fight back often survive.

General Safety in Mountain Lion Country

Hike with others, especially during dawn, dusk, or at night when lions are more active.

Carry noise-makers or walking sticks to discourage an approach.

Teach your children: stay calm, stay close, and never crouch or run.

Always report sightings or encounters to local authorities.

Report mountain lion or other wildlife encounters here

Nevada County is blessed with breathtaking trails, forested backyards, and wild beauty—but that beauty comes with responsibility. By learning how to respond calmly and confidently, we protect ourselves, our kids, and our pets while still enjoying everything our foothill home has to offer.

So next time you lace up your hiking boots or let the dogs out for a nighttime potty break, keep these tips in mind. It’s not about fearing our wildlife neighbors—it’s about coexisting safely.