According to Scott Root, Conservation Outreach Manager for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR), a Mountain Lion was shot in Cedar Fort, Utah the afternoon of 15 December 2022. The Mountain Line was shot while attacking a Cedar Fort resident’s livestock. The cougar was shot by a Cedar Fort resident when it was discovered killing two of the resident’s goats.
This mountain lion had entered a pin where the residents keep their livestock, in this case, goats. According to the DWR, the cougar killed two goats inside a pen when it was discovered by the residents and then shot by the resident. The resident reported the incident to the DWR immediately after the incident. The DWR arrived on the scene and removed the cougar for testing. Their investigation did not find any violations on the land owners part.
The DWR did comment that the cougar was a young 1-2 year old female, and she was very skinny and malnourished.
Mountain lions, also known as cougars, are an iconic species of Utah. While they can be found throughout the state, they are most commonly seen in the western and southern regions. These big cats are solitary animals and prefer to live in rugged terrain and dense forests. In Utah, mountain lions can be found in the Wasatch Mountains, the Uinta Mountains, and the Zion National Park area.
Mountain lions play an essential role in the ecosystem of Utah. These large predators keep the deer and elk populations in check, which helps maintain a healthy balance in the environment. Mountain lions also prey upon other small animals, such as rabbits and rodents, which helps reduce the spread of disease.
Although mountain lions can be dangerous to humans, attacks are rare. These cats generally avoid humans and prefer to hunt alone. However, it is essential to reduce conflicts with mountain lions. For example, it is essential to keep pets and livestock away from areas where mountain lions are known to live. It is also wise to be aware of your surroundings while hiking in the wilderness, particularly during dawn and dusk when mountain lions are most active.
Despite their fearsome reputation, mountain lions are an integral part of the Utah landscape. These animals are crucial in maintaining a healthy ecosystem and should be respected and protected. With the proper precautions, humans and mountain lions can coexist peacefully.
In September of 2022, it was reported that two women were attacked by a Mountain Lion while running in a canyon east of Salt Lake City. The women were taking a Sunday Morning run in Millcreek Canyon when a mountain lion lept at the women and left two puncture wounds on the woman’s leg. The woman could escape after throwing a rock at the mountain lion. The injuries were not considered life-threatening. DWR officials later found this mountain lion, and the animal was euthanized. It should be noted that attacks on humans by mountain lions in Utah are a rare occurrence.
With the right precautions in place, humans and mountain lions can coexist peacefully. Staying alert when in the canyons of Utah is paramount for both the mountain lions’ safety and well-being.
When out in the canyons of Utah, it is crucial to remain aware of your surroundings, especially if there is a chance that a mountain lion may be nearby. Make noise and keep your pets close, which can help deter nearby mountain lions. Avoid running or making sudden movements, as this can trigger a mountain lion’s predatory instinct. If you encounter a mountain lion, stay calm, back away slowly, and make yourself look as large as possible.
Make sure to never turn your back on the mountain lion and never try to chase or corner it. If a mountain lion does attack, fight back with whatever you have available and make as much noise as possible.
By staying alert and taking the necessary precautions when in the canyons of Utah, you can reduce the risk of a mountain lion attack and ensure the safety of both yourself and the mountain lions.
Mike Kieffer is an IT geek by hobby and trade, with a BS in Information Systems & Technology. He is a proud father of 10, a grandpa, an author, a journalist, and internet publisher. His motto is to “Elevate, Inspire and Inform”, and he is politically conservative and a Christian. Mike has a passion for technology, writing, and helping others. With a wealth of experience, he is committed to sharing his knowledge with others to help them reach their full potential. He is known for his jackassery or his form of self-expression that encourages boldness, creativity, and risk-taking. It can be a way to push the boundaries and challenge traditional norms, leading to creative solutions and positive change.