Mountain lion bites 5-year-old picnicking with family at California park, officials say
A mountain lion attacked a 5-year-old boy as he was picnicking with his family at a Southern California park, officials said.
The attack was reported at about 4:17 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1, at Malibu State Creek Park, Tapia Day Use Area, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.
The boy had been playing with other children during a family gathering at the park that included about six adults and a few children, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said in a statement to McClatchy News.
A mountain lion approached the child and grabbed him by the head, KTLA reported.
His father ran toward the child and tried to pull the animal off until it let go and ran away, the news outlet reported.
The child had been bitten and scratched, officials said.
He was then airlifted to a hospital for “significant” but non-life-threatening injuries, officials said. He was released from the hospital the next day.
The animal ran up a nearby tree, where it stayed until California State Park rangers got to the park, wildlife officials said. The animal was then killed.
Samples were taken from the child’s wounds and clothing to confirm a DNA match of the animal, officials said.
No other injuries were reported from the incident.
Malibu State Creek Park is in Calabasas, about a 28-mile drove northwest of Los Angeles.
What to know about mountain lions
Mountain lions are solitary, elusive animals, according to the National Park Service. The chances of seeing a mountain lion are slim, but people can encounter them.
“Typically, mountain lion sightings occur from a distance and usually around dawn or dusk,” park rangers said. “However, lions are unpredictable and can be dangerous.”
If you see a mountain lion, experts advise you:
Don’t approach it: Mountain lions usually want to avoid confrontation.
Don’t run: It could stimulate their chase instincts.
Stand tall: Face the mountain lion and make eye contact.
Keep children close: If a mountain lion is approaching, pick up small children so they don’t panic or run.
Don’t crouch or bend over: A mountain lion could perceive you as prey.
Fight back: If a mountain lion attacks, use rocks, sticks, jackets or anything you can get your hands on to fight back.
This story was originally published September 3, 2024 at 12:03 PM with the headline "Mountain lion bites 5-year-old picnicking with family at California park, officials say."
