A mountain lion sighting spooked several residents Wednesday night in South San Jose, but police said Thursday that they believe the animal had already made its way back to its natural habitat.
No injuries were reported.
Around 9:36 p.m., San Jose police officers received reports of a mountain lion sighting in the area of Ella Drive and War Admiral Way. Police said the callers said they saw a mountain lion walking around the residential neighborhood.
The department’s Air Support Unit made multiple announcements, letting people know about the mountain lion in the area. The police department advised residents to be aware of their surroundings and posted resources on the department’s social-media accounts to prevent human-wildlife conflicts with mountain lions.
There were two mountain lion sightings in Milpitas on May 29. On May 30, Fremont police said a mountain lion was spotted in Milpitas, south of the Warn Springs neighborhood in Fremont.
Officials shared the following tip to reduce someone’s risk of encountering a mountain lion:
- When recreating outside, avoid being alone at dawn, dusk or night. If you must, stay alert.
- Remember mountain lions are wild animals and their behavior may be unpredictable.
- Keep pets leashed and don’t let small children run ahead
If encountering a mountain lion, Fremont police advised people to:
- Never approach a mountain lion. Give them an escape route.
- Do not run. Stay calm. Do not turn your back.
- Do not crouch down or bend over.
- Face the animal, make loud noise and try to look bigger. If you’re with small children, put them on your shoulders.