August 7, 2014 (Deerhorn Valley)--The Deerhorn Valley Antler reports sightings of a mountain lion and four attacks on livestock in Bratton Valley near Jamul over the past month.
Resident Debbie Hopkins has had three goats killed and a fourth attack was foiled by her dogs. The animals were attacked from behind and large cat tracks that appear to be mountain lion tracks were found in her fenced yard.
Mountain lions are typically most active at dusk and after dark. It’s common for lions to partially bury their prey and return later to feed on their cache.
A mountain lion’s tracks look similar to a housecat’s, only much larger—and unlike dogs or coyotes, mountain lions’ tracks have no toenail marks.
The best way to discourage mountain lions from entering your property is to use outdoor lighting, including lights with motion sensors. Removing dense vegetation where lions can hide and stalk prey is also helpful. Loud noises may frighten away a lion.
Fences will not keep a mountain lion out, since they can jump over a 15 foot fence. Keeping chickens and smaller livestock fully enclosed, as in a henhouse with a roof, at night is helpful to protect your animals. It’s also wise to keep pets inside at night if a mountain lion is in the area.
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