Boise Police officers responded to a reported mountain lion sighting at around 7:00 a.m. Thursday in the 3700 block of Sweet Pea Court in East Boise.
Officers searched the area but did not locate the animal.
A woman told officers she saw the mountain lion walk through her property and head east in the direction of S. Adonis Way.
Reports indicate that the cat did not act aggressively, and no pets have been reported missing or injured.
Idaho Fish and Game has been notified and BPD officers will continue to monitor the area, according to Boise Police officials.
If you spot a mountain lion in the area, you are urged to call police immediately.
According to wildlife experts, wild animals generally try to avoid human contact. If you do see an animal in the wild:
-Maintain your distance. Behavior of wild animals is unpredictable. Don't attempt to feed, catch or pet a wild animal
-Never try to approach wildlife babies or mothers with their babies; the mother's protective response can be very fierce
-Report injured or aggressive animals immediately to authorities by calling 911; don't attempt to give aid to injured animals. If an injured animal approaches you, move away slowly
-As always, be aware of your surroundings and potential threats to personal safety, wildlife or otherwise
And Fish and Game reminds people:
-Don’t leave small children or pets outside unattended.
-Install motion-sensitive lighting around your house.
-Provide sturdy, covered shelters for sheep, goats, and other vulnerable animals.
-Deer-proof your landscaping by avoiding plants that deer like to eat. For tips, request “A Gardener’s Guide to Preventing Deer Damage” from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game offices.
-Trim brush to reduce hiding places for mountain lions.
-Don’t allow pets outside when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, and at night.
-Bring pet food inside to avoid attracting raccoons, opossums and other potential mountain lion prey.
-It is safer to hike, bike, or jog in groups.
-Avoid hiking or jogging when mountain lions are most active – dawn, dusk, and at night.
-Keep a close watch on small children.
-Do not approach a mountain lion.
-If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children.
-If you’re attacked by a mountain lion, fight back.
-If a mountain lion attacks another person, immediately call 9-1-1.
