Idaho Fish & Game Destroys Mountain Lion That Killed Family Pet

Mountain Lion Kills Pet Cat in Fenced Backyard Near Ketchum

On December 18, 2024, a mountain lion entered a 6-foot-tall fenced backyard south of Ketchum and killed a pet cat shortly after the owner let it outside. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) reported that the lion’s tracks were traced from the backyard to Highway 75, where they were lost.

Given the lion’s aggressive behavior, including entering a fenced yard, IDFG officials made the decision to trap and euthanize the animal later that day. The mountain lion was identified as a yearling female weighing approximately 70 pounds.

Craig White, Regional Supervisor of the Magic Valley Region, explained the decision:

“We don’t take these decisions lightly, but ultimately our responsibility is to protect public safety. When a mountain lion exhibits aggression towards people or their pets within the confines of a fenced yard, we need to take appropriate actions.”

 

Safety Tips for Living Near Mountain Lions

Personal Safety Tips
If you encounter a mountain lion, it is critical to avoid running, as this can trigger the lion’s instinct to chase. Instead, maintain eye contact and face the lion directly, making yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms or using objects around you. Yell loudly in a low, assertive tone, but avoid high-pitched screaming, which could mimic the sound of wounded prey. Back away slowly, taking deliberate steps, and continue to face the lion until you are at a safe distance. To enhance safety, consider carrying tools such as bear spray, an air horn, or a bright flashlight when walking outdoors, especially in low-light conditions. If a lion attacks, fight back aggressively to defend yourself.

Pet and Homeowner Safety Tips
Pet owners should keep animals on a leash when outdoors and always inspect the yard before letting pets outside. This includes turning on lights and scanning for wildlife, as even a privacy fence may not prevent a mountain lion from entering. Feeding pets outdoors should be avoided, and food dishes should be removed after meals to deter attracting wildlife. For homeowners, it is essential not to feed deer or elk, as they are the primary prey for mountain lions and can attract predators to residential areas. Securing garbage and ensuring lions cannot crawl into hidden areas such as under decks or window wells can also reduce risks. Installing motion-sensor lights and encouraging neighbors to follow similar practices can further protect the neighborhood.

Reporting Mountain Lion Sightings or Encounters

Residents and visitors should take the following steps to report mountain lion activity:

• In emergencies or attacks: Call 911 immediately.
• Non-emergencies or sightings: Contact the Magic Valley Regional Office at (208) 324-4359 during business hours (8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday).

For more information and resources on coexisting with wildlife, visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.

Credit: Information provided by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.