Cats! Mild to Wild

Your house cat has the same hunting instinct as its wild relatives. What does this mean to the wildlife of our region? Learn more about the American Bird Conservancy Cats Indoors! campaign.

Mountain lions (cougars) live in San Diego County. If you hike in the backcountry, consider carrying an air horn or pepper spray with you. Here are some basic points for staying safe in mountain lion country:

* Don't hike, bike or jog alone.

* Avoid hiking or jogging when mountain lions are most active - dawn, dusk, and at night.

* 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.

* If attacked, fight back.