Jon, Josh, Jamie and I are going on a hike through an area that a mountain lion has apparently made its home. According to a comment left on LocalHikes.Com apparently the lion is named “Fred.” This is cause for some concern and I wanted to post some survival tips I have found online to minimize our chances of an encounter.

How to reduce the chances of an encounter with a Mountain Lion — taken from survivalskills.blogs.com

1. Avoid hiking alone, especially between dusk and dawn, when lions normally do their hunting. Make plenty of noise while you hike so as to reduce the chances of surprising a lion.
2. Always keep children in sight while hiking and within arm’s reach in areas that can conceal a lion. Mountain Lions seem to be drawn to children.
3. Hike with a good walking stick; this can be useful in warding off a lion.

How to reduce the chances of an attack when encountering a Mountain Lion — taken from survivalskills.blogs.com

1. Do not approach a lion, especially if it is feeding or with its young. Most lions will avoid confrontation. Give them a way to escape.
2. Stay calm and face the lion. Do not run because this may trigger the lion’s instinct to attack. Try to appear larger by raising your hands.
3. Pick up small children so they don’t panic and run. This will also make you appear larger. Avoid bending over or crouching.
4. If the lion acts aggressively, throw rocks, branches, or whatever can be obtained without turning your back or bending over.
5. Fight back if attacked. Since a mountain lion usually tries to bite the head or neck, try to remain standing and face the attacking animal. People have successfully fought back with rocks, sticks, or bare hands.

I have also read that pepper spray has been used successfully in deterring a lion from attacking.

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