HURRICANE, Utah (KUTV) — A mountain lion was euthanized after several sightings in town.
The 18-month-old mountain lion spent about two days in Hurricane on June 10th and 11th.
“It was a young lion, probably dispersed from its mother, and it was just trying to kind of make a life on its own,” said Conservation Outreach Manager for the Division of Wildlife Resources Adam Kavalunas. “It appeared malnourished.”
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The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources said that while the animals typically prefer a life of solitude, this cougar was likely struggling to find food and turned to the city.
“It’s not uncommon to see lions around cities and urban areas, but usually it’s just a one-and-done kind of thing,” he said. “If an animal hangs around for a couple days, it’s likely becoming reliant on an urban setting.”
Because of that city reliance, the DWR decided to euthanize rather than relocate the animal. They said that the mountain lion did not harm any people or pets but was a threat.
“Mountain lions in town can pose threat to livestock, to pets, even humans,” Kavalunas said. “If you’re out on your own, a lion that’s looking for something to prey on can cause a problem for public safety.”
Kavalunas said these incidents are becoming more common.
“As we continue to build in the state of Utah, we are growing into areas where wildlife used to roam,” he said. “So, we just need to be prepared when those circumstances come about. And I’ll realize that we’re all trying to share the same space.”
Kavalunas did add that DWR employees get into their field for loving animals and do not take the decision lightly. But, they said they have to prepare for more incidents like this to come.
Many Hurricane residents wished the mountain lion was relocated, even saying they may not report future incidents.
The DWR recommends that if you see a cougar, stand tall, maintain eye contact, raise your arms, talk firmly, and fight back if it attacks.
For more tips, click here.
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