Authorities safely captured a mountain lion on Wednesday afternoon after it wandered through a residential area in Camarillo, prompting a pursuit by animal control officers.
Chase Through the Neighborhood
The large cat was first spotted moving between homes along Pheasant Hill Road, drawing the attention of police and wildlife officials. Aerial footage showed officers tracking the mountain lion after it had been darted with tranquilizers. Officials requested that news helicopters maintain a high altitude to avoid startling the animal.
By approximately 1:45 p.m., the mountain lion appeared fully sedated, lying in a bush. Animal control officers carefully removed it from the area and prepared to transport it to a safer habitat.
Also Read – California Business Owner Targeted in Alleged Murder-for-Hire Scheme, 5 Arrested
Wildlife Officials Urge Precautions
Steve Gonzalez, a spokesperson for California Fish and Wildlife, used the incident to remind residents about the importance of minimizing attractants that could draw predators like mountain lions or bears into populated areas. Pet food, garbage, and other food sources should be kept secure to reduce the likelihood of encounters.
Mountain lions are classified as a “specially protected” species in California, thriving in areas where their primary prey—such as deer, elk, and wild pigs—are abundant. Adult males can grow up to 5 feet long and weigh as much as 170 pounds.
Authorities plan to monitor the captured mountain lion’s health before relocating it to a more suitable environment.
- California Bill to Criminalize Self-Defense Pulled from Consideration - March 14, 2025
- Food Recall Alert: 15,000 Cases of Oyster Crackers Recalled in U.S. - March 14, 2025
- Hip-Hop Star Jay Rock Arrested in Los Angeles by LAPD - March 14, 2025
