Woman Killed in Suspected Mountain Lion Attack in the US
A tragic incident occurred on Wednesday in Colorado, where a hiker is believed to have been killed by at least one mountain lion. If confirmed, this would mark the first fatal mountain lion attack in the state since 1999.
Incident Overview
– A group of hikers discovered the woman’s body on a remote trail near Rocky Mountain National Park and noticed a mountain lion in the vicinity.
– After scaring off the lion, the hikers checked the woman but found no pulse, as confirmed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) spokesperson Kara Van Hoose.
– It remains unclear whether one or more mountain lions were involved in the attack, but two lions have since been euthanized during an extensive search.
Investigation Details
– Euthanization and Investigation: Wildlife officials euthanized two mountain lions in the area and are currently examining them for human DNA evidence.
– Hiker Reaction: The hikers reportedly threw rocks at the mountain lion to drive it away, as stated by Ms. Van Hoose during a press conference.
– Law Enforcement Response: CPW officers responded promptly, but the lion managed to escape before they could track it down.
Safety Measures
– According to CPW regulations, any wildlife involved in the death of a human must be euthanized to ensure public safety.
– The woman’s body exhibited signs consistent with a mountain lion attack, as emphasized by Ms. Van Hoose.
– The local sheriff’s office has contacted her next of kin and will reveal her identity once formalities are complete. It is believed she was hiking alone.
Location and Search Efforts
– The incident took place on Crosier Mountain Trail, located north of Denver and near the Wyoming border. The area is known for its remoteness, often leading to hikers losing cell phone signals.
– A collaborative search effort involved the Larimer County sheriff’s office, police from Estes Park, and volunteer firefighters.
– A biologist conducting a deer survey from a helicopter assisted in the search, while houndsmen deployed dogs to track scents, a method often effective for locating mountain lions.
Mountain Lion Attacks
– Mountain lion attacks are rare in Colorado, with CPW documenting only 28 total incidents since 1990, both fatal and non-fatal.
– These big cats, known as pumas, cougars, catamounts, or panthers, predominantly inhabit 15 western states in North America. They are primarily solitary hunters.
In conclusion, the suspected mountain lion attack that led to a woman’s tragic death underscores the need for awareness when hiking in wildlife-rich areas. As investigations continue, officials stress the importance of safety and vigilance while enjoying the great outdoors.