Mountain lion tranquilized after climbing tree in Hesperia neighborhood

HESPERIA, Calif. (VVNG.com) — A mountain lion was tranquilized in a Hesperia neighborhood after residents found the wild cat hiding in a tree.

“Mountain lion located in the neighborhood near Danbury and Temecula in Hesperia. Animal Control/Fish & Game responded and tranquilized the animal. It is being transported to the mountains,” stated a City of Hesperia tweet.

According to San Bernardino County Fire the homeowner noticed the animal while working in the yard and immediately summoned authorities for help. 

The lion was tranquilized at approximately 4:20 p.m., and County Firefighters approached the animal using a ladder.

A lowering system using ropes and pulleys. The lion was then secured into a rescue harness and eventually lowered safely to the ground, where he was evaluated by a Fish & Wildlife biologist,” stated SB County Fire in a news release.

Fish & Wildlife biologist Kevin Brennan says it is common for young mountain lions to wander outside what some would consider normal habitat in an attempt to establish their territory.

Fish & Wildlife Warden Rick Fischer remarked that without the help of San Bernardino County firefighters it would have been difficult to extract the animal safely, and that while human attacks are rare, mountain lions have been known to attack family pets and livestock. 

“Leaving the lion in the tree would not have been safe for the community,” Fischer says. 

“Once the lion regained consciousness we ensured he safely returned to his suitable habitat,” Fischer says.

There have been several mountain lion sightings reported throughout the Victor Valley over the past couple of weeks.

On February 3, 2019, Trish Morrison posted a photo to Facebook of a large mountain lion spotted in a field close to homes near the area of Kiowa and Tussing Ranch Roads in Apple Valley.

On February 11, 2019, Sean Ishol, a resident of Lucerne Valley, posted a photo to the Victor Valley News Facebook group of a mountain lion hiding inside of his garage.

If dangerous wildlife is spotted, do not approach, call AC immediately at (760) 947-1707.

Mountain lion located in the neighborhood near Danbury and Temecula in #Hesperia. Animal Control/Fish & Game responded and tranquilized the animal. It is being transported to the mountains.

If dangerous wildlife is spotted, do not approach, call AC immediately at (760) 947-1707 pic.twitter.com/pogootR4hR

— City of Hesperia (@CityofHesperia) February 17, 2019

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