Fish & Game euthanized mountain lion; warn more may be coming
Dog owners in the Valley can breathe a little bit easier, thanks to the use of a local hound whose owner was called on by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) for assistance in locating the mountain lion believed to be the culprit of four fatal attacks on local canines.
According to Fish and Game officials, the dog located the lion hiding under the deck of a home in Ketchum directly across the street from the most recent attack. Officers euthanized the lion to ensure public safety.
“The mountain lions living within our local communities seem to be growing more accustomed to hunting in and around neighborhoods,” Clark Shackelford, IDFG senior conservation officer, said. “The large number of resident deer and elk are bringing the lions into town, and then the lions, which normally feed on these animals, are also finding that there are other things to prey upon which, unfortunately, can include local residents’ pets.”
Fish and Game officers received two reports of fatal mountain lion attacks on dogs early Wednesday morning, Dec. 18. These were the third and fourth mountain lion attacks on dogs in the area over a period of five days, two of which took place over the prior weekend, causing alarm to many residents with pets who spend a lot of time outdoors. On Sunday evening, Dec. 15, a domestic dog was killed in Gimlet, south of Ketchum. According to Fish and Game officers, the lion was in a fenced backyard when it killed the homeowner’s dog, a pudelpointer.
“Decisions regarding what to do with wildlife involved in conflict situations are determined on a case-by-case basis,” said Terry Thompson, IDFG spokesperson in a statement to the press. “Each situation is unique. Once the facts are known and evaluated, a decision is then made about the required course of action.”
Although one lion has been killed, it doesn’t mean dog owners and their pets are out of the woods, yet.
“Winter is just beginning, and we anticipate that mountain lions will continue to move into the valley over the coming months, due to the availability of prey,” Shackelford said.
Safety Tips
If you walk your dog, especially in the early morning or in the evening, keep your pet on a leash, officials say. Other tips include:
- Feed pets indoors if possible. Pet food left outdoors may attract mountain lions or lion prey, such as raccoons.
- Manage garbage to avoid attracting lion prey. Don’t leave garbage out at night. Use cans with tight-fitting lids.
If you encounter a mountain lion, there are key strategies to remember:
- Never run
- Back away from the lion slowly
- Make as much noise as possible
If you have a significant encounter with a mountain lion, please call the IDFG Magic Valley Regional Office or local law enforcement immediately:
- IDFG Magic Valley Regional Office: (208) 324-4359
- Blaine County Sheriff: 911 or (208) 788-5555
