Colorado Mountain Lion Euthanized After Recent Attacks

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has confirmed that they have euthanized a mountain lion after recent attacks near Silverthorne, Colorado. The mountain lion was deemed a to human health and safety.

The euthanization of the sub-adult mountain lion occurred on Monday, February 12 after an investigation on February 11 which showed the mountain lion has lost all fear of humans. The mountain lion was a female that was approximately 1.5 to 2 years old.

The decision was made to euthanize the mountain lion after three separate attacks occurred starting on February 1 when three goats were killed by a mountain lion. A few days later,  a was attacked by a mountain lion. The dog's owner was able to scare off the mountain lion and took the dog to a local veterinarian to be treated for injuries and released back to the owner.

On Sunday, February 11, a trap was set in the overnight hours which successfully captured the mountain lion. Colorado Parks and Wildlife then used a tranquilizer gun to immobilize the mountain lion so it could be transported to an area to be humanely euthanized.

Protecting Your Pets From Mountain Lions in Colorado

Colorado Parks and Wildlife states there are things you can do to help keep your pets safe from mountain lions in Colorado. Mountain lions are the most active between dusk through dawn. If you have to let your pet outside during these hours, be sure to check the area, turn on a light, and make noise before letting your pet outside. Doing these things will make your presence known to the mountain lion and also make it feel uncomfortable and possibly leave the area.

When walking your dogs, keep them leashed until you enter your home. Pets off a leash can attract mountain lions and could be easy prey. See more on how to prevent mountain lion attacks at cpw.state.co.us.