Quick Answer
NEVER turn your back on a mountain lion during a confrontation or try to run away.
Making Yourself Large
When encountering a mountain lion, making yourself appear larger is crucial. Stand up straight, spread your arms, and try to look as big as possible. This can be achieved by placing your feet shoulder-width apart, keeping your shoulders back, and attempting to appear more intimidating. If you’re with a group, stand together to form a united front, making it appear as though there are more people present.
Fighting Back
As a last resort, fighting back is an option. However, this should be done with caution, as mountain lions are powerful and can inflict serious injuries. Use any available objects such as sticks, rocks, or your hiking poles to defend yourself. Aim for the mountain lion’s face, ears, and eyes, as these are the most vulnerable areas. Avoid using your bare hands, as they are more susceptible to injury.
Protecting Children
If you’re with children, keep them close and within arm’s reach. If a mountain lion approaches, position yourself between the child and the predator. Protecting children is a priority, and keeping them safe from harm should be your main focus. If you’re unable to defend yourself, use your body to shield the child from the mountain lion’s attack.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.