Locals warned about mountain lion activity after dead livestock found in remote Colorado

The Ouray County Sheriff's Office recently cautioned locals about mountain lion activity in the area that's believed to be connected to livestock killings.

According to the sheriff's office, one specific area that's relevant to the situation is County Road 24, which connects the town of Dallas (north of Ridgway) to State Highway 62, east of West Baldy.

Authorities have requested that the public report mountain lion activity the may encounter, especially if that involves an attack on livestock.

Reports can be made to dispatch at 970-249-9110.

While mountain lion attacks on humans are extremely rare, the species is something to watch out for while recreating anywhere in Colorado's mountains. Mountain lions tend to avoid human activity, though factors like ailments, hunger, and being defensive of young can cause them to act aggressively.

If a mountain lion is encountered in the wild, the best course of action is to slowly back away from the animal without turning your back to the cat. This is generally enough to remove oneself from an encounter. If a mountain lion is acting aggressively, however, shouting and loud noises along with an aggressive waving of the arms can help to scare it off. If it continues to approach, throw objects in its direction without bending over to pick something up.

Unattended children and pets can be particularly at-risk of an attack.

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