Mountain Lion Spotted In Backyard Of Burbank Hillside Home

BURBANK (CBSLA.com) — A mountain lion dubbed P-41 was recently spotted in the backyard of a home in the hills above Burbank, but officials said the animal is not considered a danger to residents.

The big cat is about 8 years old and has a tracking device in its collar that allows its movements to be monitored by a National Park Service team, Burbank police Sgt. Claudio Losacco said.

The exact location of the recent sighting was not released, but officials said it was well above Sunset Canyon Drive and south of Magnolia Avenue. The lion was spotted on a homeowner's surveillance system, carrying a raccoon in its mouth.

"P-41 has been spending most of his time in the most natural areas of the Verdugo Mountains, and the team biologists believe 95 percent of his diet has been in the form of mule deer," Losacco said. "The Verdugo Mountains, as well as much of Southern California, is considered mountain lion territory, and it's believed these animals have lived in this area for generations."

Kate Kuykendall of the National Park Service said there was "no indication that P-41 has demonstrated any abnormal or aggressive behavior."

"He is in his natural habitat, and taking his natural prey," Kuykendall said.

Fish and Game officials had the following tips for keeping homes safe from mountain lions:

• Do not feed deer; it is illegal in California and it will attract mountain lions.Trim brush to reduce hiding places for mountain lions.
• Keep your pet inside when mountain lions are most active - dawn, dusk, and at night.
• Bring pet food inside to avoid attracting raccoons, opossums and other potential prey.
• Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended.
• Install motion sensitive lighting around your home.
• Do not hike, bike or jog alone.
• Avoid hiking or jogging when mountain lions are most active - dawn, dusk, and at night.
• Never approach a mountain lion.
• If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children. If attacked, fight back.