Noon update:
A mountain lion causing terror in the Diamond Crest area of Susanville has been successfully eliminated. Concern escalated over the weekend when a homeowner witnessed the lion snatching their small pet dog over their fence. In response, Fish and Wildlife officers were promptly summoned to investigate and validate the incident.
The lion had been repeatedly sighted by other local residents over the last several weeks. Its initial appearance dates back to early July, with surveillance cameras capturing its presence. There was even a report of a homeowner colliding with the animal in their vehicle, resulting in a potential but minor injury to the lion.
Authorities emphasize that mountain lions are recognized for causing similar disturbances in the region. However, those living in the area of Diamond Crest can now rest assured knowing that the lion has been killed, as officially confirmed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Presently, the lion awaits a necropsy examination by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Additional details will be disclosed as soon as the report becomes available.
Earlier report:
A growing concern is gripping the Diamond Crest area of Susanville due to an increasingly frequent appearance of a mountain lion during daylight hours.
The community is troubled as multiple pets have gone missing, with one witness claiming to have seen their pet being taken by the lion. Although unverified, authorities such as the Warden, Fish, and Game Biologist, and federal trapper have reportedly been notified. Caution is advised if you’re near Bantley on Richmond Road or off Diamond Crest. The lion’s appearance was first noted in early July, and residents have captured the animal on security cameras, with one potentially hitting it accidentally while entering their driveway.
According to the Humane Society, Mountain lions have the largest “home ranges” of any land mammal, ranging from 30 to 125 square miles.
The National Park Service says you can protect yourself if you face a lion by waving your arms slowly and speaking firmly in a loud voice. If looking bigger doesn’t scare the mountain lion off, without crouching or turning your back, start throwing stones, branches, or whatever you can reach in its direction but not directly at it.
Photo: Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
