Glendale officials announced today that a mountain lion was spotted February 15 in the Verdugo Mountains. The large lion was seen by officers in a Glendale Police Department helicopter while the animal was sunning itself in a clearing. Officials have not said specifically, where in the Verdugo mountains, the sighting took place.

Mountain lions are a natural part of the region’s environment. They usually hunt alone, at night. Lions are very powerful and normally prey upon large animals such as deer. Generally, mountain lions are calm, quiet and elusive. An adult male’s home range can span over 100 square miles; an adult female has a range between 20 – 60 square miles.

In response to the sighting, Glendale officials will be posting signs and flyers at various locations including Deukmejian Wilderness Park and Brand Park.  Representatives of the State Fish and Game Department have also been notified.  Officials say this is the first mountain lion sighting this year.

Mountain lions are generally described as tawny colored with black-tipped ears and tail. Adult males may be 8 feet long from nose to end of tail and generally weigh between 130 and 150 pounds. Adult females can be 7 feet long and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds.

If You Encounter a Mountain Lion:

•    Do not hike or bike alone (go in groups, with adults supervising children)

•    Keep children close (keep children within your sight at all times)

•    Do not approach a lion, they want to avoid a confrontation

•    Do not run from a lion (make eye contact, pick up children without bending down)

•    Do not crouch down or bend over

•    Do all you can to appear larger (raise your arms, open your jacket, wave arms slowly, talk loudly)

•    Fight back if attacked (throw rocks, use sticks, remain standing)

For additional information, please contact the Glendale Park Rangers at (818) 334-9042.