Why might a mountain lion follow you rather than attack?

Mountain Lion Tracking Behavior

Mountain lions are stealthy predators that rely on surprise to catch their prey. If a mountain lion is stalking you, it may choose to follow you at a distance rather than attack outright, especially if it feels you’re aware of its presence. This behavior is often referred to as “stalk and pounce.” The mountain lion may use cover, such as trees or rocks, to conceal itself and get closer to you. It may also use its exceptional hearing and vision to stay alert and track its prey.

Factors Influencing Mountain Lion Behavior

The likelihood of a mountain lion following you rather than attacking depends on various factors, including the mountain lion’s age, sex, and hunger levels. A hungry adult mountain lion is more likely to attack than a younger or less hungry individual. Additionally, mountain lions are more likely to attack if they feel cornered or threatened, or if they’re protecting their territory or young. If you’re hiking in mountain lion country, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and make noise to avoid startling a mountain lion.

Safety Precautions

If you suspect a mountain lion is following you, stay calm and try to slowly and quietly back away while keeping an eye on the mountain lion. Avoid running, as this can trigger the mountain lion’s chase instinct. If you’re in a group, stay together and try to appear as large and intimidating as possible. Make loud noises by yelling or banging objects together to scare the mountain lion away. If a mountain lion does attack, fight back with any available objects, such as sticks or rocks, and aim for the face and eyes.